In a strong statement on regional diplomacy, National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah has said that India-Pakistan relations will never improve until a people-elected government replaces the military rule in Pakistan. Calling Pakistan a “failed state”, he warned that continuing tensions could lead to dangerous consequences, especially given both nations’ nuclear capabilities.
“Pakistan Needs a People’s Government”
Speaking at a party event in Srinagar, Abdullah said,
“I do not think relations between India and Pakistan will ever improve unless the army goes. The people of Pakistan want friendship with India, not their rulers.”
He stressed that a democratic transition in Pakistan is key to peace between the two nations.
War Would Be Disastrous
Warning of the grave consequences of a possible war, Abdullah said,
“If there is war between two nuclear powers, only God knows what will happen. The world is trying to prevent it, but success is uncertain.”
He emphasized that conflict is not the solution and urged both governments to act responsibly.
Criticizes Deportation of Pakistanis
On the deportation of Pakistani nationals living in India, Abdullah said such actions are inhumane:
“These people have lived here for decades, accepted India, and never harmed the country. Deporting them is against humanity.”
Caste Census Welcomed
Abdullah also supported the Centre’s move to conduct a caste census, saying it would bring clarity to the country’s demographics.
“There is nothing wrong with knowing how many people are from which communities — Brahmins, Muslims, Sikhs, or Christians.”
On Harassment of Kashmiris
When asked about the alleged harassment of Kashmiris outside J&K, he condemned such behavior, likening it to historical hate crimes:
“Even Godse was from India. Such people will exist, but we must not fear them. The governments are trying to prevent such acts.”
