National Conference president and former MP Farooq Abdullah condemned recent terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, declaring on Friday that the region “will never become part of Pakistan.” Abdullah urged Pakistan to cease its backing of terrorism, emphasizing the toll it has taken on the lives of innocent people in Kashmir.
Call for Change and Diplomacy
Addressing Pakistan directly, Abdullah questioned the motives behind the violence, asking, “Why are they doing this? Is it to ruin our future?” He advised Pakistan to redirect its focus to domestic development rather than continuing its interference in Kashmir. “Pakistan is destroying itself and dragging us down as well,” he remarked, calling on Pakistan to adopt a “path of friendship” instead. He warned that continued support for terrorism would only further complicate the situation.
Recent Surge in Violence
In the past two weeks, a series of deadly attacks has led to the loss of 20 lives, including those of civilians, non-resident workers, a doctor, and Army porters. On October 24, the latest incident occurred in Gulmarg, where terrorists ambushed two Indian Army trucks near Botapathri, approximately 6 km from the popular tourist destination. The attack resulted in the deaths of three soldiers and two Army porters. The convoy, which included a Rashtriya Rifles unit and civilian porters, was en route to the Nagin post in the Afrawat range when it came under fire.
Earlier, on October 20, seven people, including a local doctor from Budgam and six workers from outside Kashmir, were killed in a terrorist attack on a construction site in Ganderbal district. This incident marked the most lethal assault on civilians since the June 9 attack in Reasi, in which nine pilgrims lost their lives after terrorists targeted their bus, causing it to plunge into a valley.
Abdullah’s statements reflect a long-standing call for peace, as he noted his three-decade-long observation of violence in the region. His message underscores an urgent appeal for diplomatic solutions to end the cycle of violence.
