Srinagar, May 1 — Farooq Abdullah on Friday expressed disappointment over what he described as inadequate support within the INDIA bloc, particularly from the Indian National Congress, for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.
In an interview with PTI, the National Conference president said the alliance had not backed the issue with the “expected vigour,” calling it a major concern.
“You see, that has been our biggest objection to this national alliance… we had hoped they would, with far more vigour, fight for our cause. That has not happened. Really very sad that the major party Congress has not played the role that we expect from it,” Abdullah said.
He, however, reiterated that his party remains part of the alliance and ruled out any alignment with the BJP. “It is very clear that we are not part of the BJP and we will never be part of it. We are part of the INDIA bloc,” he said, expressing hope the grouping would take up the issue more strongly after ongoing elections.
Abdullah stressed the need for regular engagement within the alliance beyond electoral coordination. “This alliance is not only for elections. It is for the future of this nation… which at times is being ignored,” he said, calling for more frequent meetings.
On the broader political landscape, he said the opposition has not projected a leader capable of matching Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and urged leaders to connect more directly with the public.
He also voiced optimism that the Centre would act on restoring statehood after ongoing Assembly elections in various states. “Assurances have been given… we are hopeful that after these elections, they will take up this issue,” he said.
Referring to legal options, Abdullah indicated his party may approach the Supreme Court of India if there is further delay. The court had directed in December 2023 that statehood be restored “at the earliest” following its ruling on the abrogation of Article 370.
On ties with the Centre, he said government-level engagement continues, citing recent approvals for rural road projects, while noting several issues remain pending.