Farooq vows to bridge Jammu-Kashmir divide, confirms Omar as CM

National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah declared on Wednesday that the primary focus of the new NC-Congress government would be to bridge the divide between Jammu and Kashmir while fostering confidence among the Hindu community in the region.
Addressing reporters, Abdullah emphasized the urgent need to minimize the differences that have been exacerbated between the two regions of the Union Territory. “We must work towards reducing the gaps that have been created between Jammu and Kashmir. Our priority should be to ensure that the Hindus in Jammu have complete confidence in us and know that we will care for them just as we do for the people of Kashmir,” Abdullah stated. The NC leader underscored that the new government would not differentiate based on voting patterns. “Even if they did not vote for us, it is our duty to address their concerns and resolve their issues,” he added, reinforcing a commitment to inclusive governance. Abdullah acknowledged the significant challenges that lie ahead for the new government, particularly inflation and unemployment. “The biggest challenges we face are tackling inflation and creating job opportunities for our youth. We must focus on providing avenues for their growth,” he said, outlining the administration’s priorities. When questioned about the leadership of the new government, Abdullah made it clear that the decision regarding the chief minister would rest with him. While his son, Omar Abdullah, had earlier mentioned that the alliance would collectively decide on the chief minister, Farooq Abdullah asserted his authority, stating, “What I have decided, only that will happen.”
Abdullah had previously confirmed that Omar Abdullah would indeed take on the role of chief minister in the new government, further solidifying the family’s stronghold over the party’s leadership decisions.