National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah condemned the recent terror attack in Gangangeer, Ganderbal, which resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, including a doctor, and injuries to five others. Abdullah emphasized that such acts of violence will not contribute to merging Kashmir with Pakistan, reiterating that “Kashmir will never become part of Pakistan.” He stressed that if the Pakistani leadership genuinely seeks friendship with India, they must cease the violence and killing of innocents in the region.
The attack in Ganderbal, which targeted an under-construction tunnel, occurred on a day when approximately 2,000 athletes, including 50 international participants, were in Srinagar for the inaugural Kashmir Marathon. This timing highlighted the stark contrast between the efforts to promote peace and tourism in the region and the brutal violence perpetrated by terrorists.
Dr. Abdullah expressed deep sorrow over the attack, which he described as “very unfortunate.” He lamented the loss of lives, particularly that of the doctor and the immigrant laborers, questioning the terrorists’ motives. “What will the terrorists get from this? Do they think they will be able to create a Pakistan here?” he asked, pointing out the futility of such violence. He emphasized that for the last 75 years, Pakistan has not succeeded in its efforts to annex Kashmir and questioned how it could succeed now.
Further, Dr. Abdullah issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating that the consequences of continued violence would be severe. He urged the Pakistani leadership to halt its aggression and violence in order to foster a more amicable relationship with India. He firmly stated, “Kashmir Pakistan nahi banega,” reinforcing the notion that Kashmir will not be subsumed into Pakistan.
In his remarks, Abdullah insisted that there could be no dialogue with Pakistan as long as it continues to kill innocents in Kashmir. He questioned the rationale behind the attacks, asking, “What was the fault of those who were killed yesterday?” His call for accountability was directed not only at the perpetrators but also at the broader political context that allows such violence to persist.
Moreover, Dr. Abdullah called on Pakistan to focus on the welfare of its own citizens rather than interfering in Kashmir. “Pakistan should take care of its own people and leave Kashmir to Kashmiris,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for both nations to prioritize their citizens’ welfare and work towards ending poverty and suffering in their respective regions.
He also underscored that such violent acts could severely impact tourism and the livelihoods of those living in Kashmir, stating, “These acts will definitely cast a shadow not only on tourism but on the lives of everyone living in Kashmir.” The contrast between the effort to host international athletes and the recent attack serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the region in its quest for peace and normalcy.
The Gangangeer attack not only highlights the ongoing conflict but also raises broader questions about the future of dialogue between India and Pakistan. Dr. Abdullah’s firm stance reflects a desire for stability and peace in Kashmir, coupled with a rejection of violence as a means to political ends. The focus on serving the people and addressing their grievances resonates as a call for more constructive engagement that prioritizes human rights and development over terrorism.
As the situation unfolds, the international community will undoubtedly watch closely. The commitment of leaders like Dr. Abdullah to reject violence while advocating for the rights and safety of Kashmiri people underscores the complexity of the region’s political landscape. The hope remains that both India and Pakistan can move towards a more peaceful coexistence, where dialogue can replace hostility and mutual respect can pave the way for a brighter future for Kashmir.