PoJK Situation Vindicates J&K’s 1947 Accession to India: Omar Abdullah

Addressing the main Independence Day function at Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium, he said federalism can be strengthened only when powers are genuinely shared and not merely retained as constitutional principles on paper. He argued that J&K should become the starting point for a broader effort to reinforce federalism across the country.

Reflecting on the region’s history, Abdullah said developments across the Line of Control (LoC) had reinforced his belief that the decision taken by J&K’s leaders in 1947 was the right one. He recalled how the people of the princely state resisted tribal raiders and infiltrators before the arrival of the Indian Army, describing it as a defining chapter in the region’s history. He also paid tribute to Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and other figures who played a role in defending the region during that period.

Commenting on the situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Abdullah described it as “sad” and “regretful,” stressing that the people living across the LoC are not strangers but part of the same historical and cultural fabric of J&K. He noted that Assembly seats in J&K designated for those areas remain vacant, expressing hope that a day would come when the people from those regions would occupy them. He also remarked that had the situation in J&K not changed in 2019, people across the LoC might have been demanding reunification.

The Chief Minister used the occasion to reiterate his government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and merit-based governance. Referring to controversies surrounding recruitment and admissions, he said public trust takes years to build but can be lost within minutes, underlining the need for fair and transparent processes. He stressed that deserving candidates must have confidence that opportunities in education and employment are awarded purely on merit.

Abdullah also highlighted the importance of a healthy democratic framework, saying governments must remain responsive to public expectations, while the opposition and media play a vital role in ensuring accountability. He said his administration remains focused on development, youth empowerment and improving opportunities for people across J&K.

Concluding his address, the Chief Minister assured the people that his government would continue to represent their aspirations and pursue the restoration of statehood and constitutional rights. Extending Independence Day greetings, he expressed hope that the coming decades would bring greater peace, prosperity, unity and progress for both J&K and the country as a whole.