‘NC chief calls for end to terrorism, recalls Kargil war, expresses full support for PM Modi’s handling of national security’
Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD): In a strongly worded statement, National Conference (NC) President and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, warned Pakistan against any nuclear misadventure and reiterated that India would respond in kind if provoked. Speaking to reporters at Raghunath Bazaar in Jammu, Dr. Abdullah also urged Pakistan to end its support for terrorism if it wishes to maintain friendly ties with India.
“If Pakistan resorts to using nuclear weapons, India will respond in a similar fashion,” Dr. Abdullah cautioned, adding that such a move would invite devastating consequences.
Highlighting the need for peace in the region, he remarked, “Pakistan must end terrorism if it wants to remain friendly with India. If it doesn’t want friendship, what can we do?”
Backing Prime Minister Narendra Modi amidst ongoing security concerns, the veteran politician said, “We have given our full support to PM Narendra Modi. Now it’s up to the Prime Minister to decide how he will respond.”
Dr. Abdullah also reflected on past conflicts, particularly the Kargil War, recalling, “Pakistan launched the Kargil war when I was the Chief Minister of J&K. They first denied any involvement, but when they suffered losses, the country begged Bill Clinton to allow them to take back their military equipment.”
On the issue of cross-border terrorism, the NC chief directly blamed Pakistan for major attacks in India, stating, “Who did Uri, Pathankot and Mumbai? It’s Pakistan. There’s no doubt.”
The remarks come amid rising tensions in the region, with political leaders and security experts closely watching developments along the Line of Control and in diplomatic circles. Dr. Abdullah’s statement underscores a hardened political stance on terrorism and strategic threats emanating from across the border.(DD)
