In a sharp critique of the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha-led administration in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, National Conference President Farooq Abdullah has renewed his call for the restoration of the territory’s statehood, emphasizing the need for a powerful and unified governance structure. According to Kashmir Media Service, speaking during his visit to Kathua, Abdullah emphasized the necessity of a cohesive administrative structure and criticized the current dual governance model. “The double-engine Government will not work here. Statehood will be restored, and there will be only one power centre in [occupied] Jammu and Kashmir,” he declared, reiterating the Indian government’s commitment to restoring statehood as pledged before the Indian Supreme Court.

Addressing the issue of Rohingya refugees, Abdullah stated that providing basic amenities like water and electricity to them is a humanitarian duty. “The Government of India brought these refugees here. As long as they reside in this region, it is our responsibility to ensure they have access to essential services,” he said. His remarks followed BJP’s accusations that previous NC-led administrations facilitated the settlement of Rohingyas and Bangladeshis in Jammu as part of a “political conspiracy.” Abdullah highlighted several pressing concerns in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, including power shortages, unemployment, poor infrastructure and environmental degradation.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)