Omar Abdullah Acknowledges PM Modi as an Honorable Man: Seeks Strong Relations with Central Government
In a surprising turn, Omar Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and vice president of the National Conference (NC), has made a significant statement regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the future of Article 370. Abdullah acknowledged that Modi is an “honorable man” and emphasized the need for strong ties between Jammu and Kashmir and the central government.
In a public address, Omar Abdullah stated, “We are not foolish to think we will get Article 370 back.” This remark indicates a pragmatic shift in the National Conference’s stance on the abrogated Article, which had granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir until its revocation in August 2019.
Highlighting the region’s delicate geopolitical situation, Abdullah remarked, “We already have hostile neighbors on both sides.” Given this, he stressed the importance of maintaining strong relations with the central government for the betterment of Jammu and Kashmir. “We want strong relations with the Central Govt,” he said, underlining that such cooperation would benefit the state’s development and security.
Abdullah further added, “That will be good for my state. We want to work with the Centre.” This statement suggests a shift toward a more collaborative approach with the central leadership under Modi, focusing on fostering peace, development, and stability in the region.
This new stance may reflect the National Conference’s evolving political strategy as they seek to navigate the challenges of post-Article 370 Jammu and Kashmir, while ensuring the region’s integration and progress within the broader national framework.