Srinagar, Jun 21: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday stated that his party would consider approaching the Supreme Court if the Centre continues to delay the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters after a party workers’ meeting in Kokernag, South Kashmir, Abdullah said people’s expectations post-elections remain unmet due to the lack of statehood.
“There are many demands like wanting Altaf Kaloo to be made a minister but this is not possible without statehood,” he noted. “We are waiting, but if the delay continues, we may have no option but to move the Supreme Court.”
Expressing hope that full powers will be returned once statehood is restored, Abdullah also commented on global issues.
Referring to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, he said, “I pray to God to give both Israel and Iran the wisdom to stop the war and also Donald Trump so he speaks of peace, not conflict.”
Earlier, addressing his party workers, Abdullah questioned the security lapses that allowed the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed.
“Despite the heavy security and surveillance tech like drones, the attackers managed to reach Baisaran and execute the strike. If militancy has ended, where did they come from?” he asked.
He added that the attackers still haven’t been located, raising concerns about the claims of national strength and security.
With inputs from the agencies
