Jammu, Jan 22: National Conference (NC) president Dr. Farooq Abdullah stated on Wednesday that Article 370 was introduced in 1927 by the Maharajas to safeguard the land and identity of Dogras in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at a gathering in Jammu, Dr. Abdullah explained that there were fears that residents from Punjab might settle in the region. To address this concern, Article 370 was implemented nearly a century ago to protect the land of Dogras. “This provision was not created for Kashmiris but specifically for the Dogra community. People are hesitant to settle in Kashmir because of their fear of Muslims,” he remarked.
Dr. Abdullah also dismissed the narrative that Hindus are under threat, saying, “There is no danger to the 80 percent majority population. The real challenge is not external threats but the internal problems facing India today.” He urged people to reflect on what they have gained and lost in recent times.
Criticizing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Abdullah accused its late founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed of forming an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). “The NC, Congress, and other parties offered their support, but Mufti chose to partner with the BJP. The PDP should look inward and analyze its actions,” he said.
Dr. Abdullah emphasized that no one can influence the current government, asserting that the Omar Abdullah-led administration is fully committed to serving the people.__KNO
