BJP’s False Claims of Normalcy in IIOJK: NC

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah has contested the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) assertion that the security situation in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir has improved since the revocation of Article 370. Speaking at Aaj Tak’s ‘Panchayat’ event by Dal Lake, Abdullah argued that the heavy security presence during the Amarnath Yatra undermines the BJP’s claims of normalcy.

Abdullah criticized the extensive security measures taken during the Amarnath Yatra, which he believes contradict the government’s narrative of improved conditions. He described the situation as akin to treating tourists as prisoners, with their movements tightly controlled and monitored. The scale of security deployed was unprecedented and, in Abdullah’s view, indicates ongoing instability rather than improvement.

The National Conference leader expressed a firm belief that Article 370, which granted Jammu and Kashmir special status, will eventually be restored. He compared this situation to India’s long struggle for independence, suggesting that just as it took 200 years for freedom, restoring Article 370 will be a matter of time.

Additionally, Abdullah refuted claims by Delhi regarding a significant drop in stone-pelting incidents since 2019. He highlighted that many young individuals are still imprisoned, questioning the accuracy of the government’s reports on the reduction of such incidents.

In conclusion, Abdullah’s statements reflect a deep skepticism towards the BJP’s claims of progress and highlight ongoing concerns about security and civil rights in the region.