Bijbehara, Apr 21: Former Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday said last year’s Pahalgam attack was a major setback for Jammu and Kashmir and paid homage to those killed in the incident.
Talking to reporters in Bijbehara, he made a special mention of pony operator Syed Adil Shah, who lost his life while saving tourists.
“I pay homage to all those who were killed, especially those who stood up against terrorism,” the three-time chief minister said.
He said that the dialogue between Iran and the United States (US) was the only way forward and expressed hope that ongoing negotiations would lead to peace in the region.
“I am quite sure that negotiations and dialogue will lead to peace. There is no alternative to a peaceful resolution,” Abdullah said.
He said multiple rounds of talks may take place but peace would ultimately prevail.
“The world can only be saved through peace,” Abdullah said, warning that a prolonged conflict could trigger a wider crisis.
“If war prolongs, petrol, diesel and gas supplies may be affected, and prices of essential commodities could skyrocket,” he said.
Abdullah was speaking after paying tributes to NC stalwart and close associate of party founder Sheikh Abdullah, Abdul Gani Veeri, on his 11th death anniversary.
Regarding the Women’s Reservation Bill, he said that the NC does not oppose reservation, adding that the legislation introduced in 2023 passed with a majority.
“A similar bill had been introduced during the tenure of former Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao, but the BJP had opposed it at the time,” Abdullah said.
Describing Veeri as a loyal party worker who made significant sacrifices, he said he “always stood with the party, even during difficult times,” and urged leaders to remain united.
“We must prioritise the party and not allow opponents to take advantage. Differences can exist, but they should be resolved within the party,” Abdullah said.
Veeri’s son, Bashir Ahmad Veeri, also paid tributes and pledged to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Several NC leaders and legislators were present on the occasion.
