In a recent address, Dr. Farooq Abdullah emphasized the need for secular and democratic forces to unite against growing communalism and intolerance in India.
New Delhi, India Jul 19, 2026 ALN: ‘Our peaceful struggle for restoration of J&K’s special rights will continue’
Srinagar: The Jammu & Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah voiced deep concern over what he described as the “growing climate of hatred, communalism, religious intolerance, and social polarization” in the country. His remarks come in a context where the socio-political landscape of India has been increasingly characterized by divisions along religious and communal lines. This trend has raised alarms among various political leaders, activists, and civil society organizations, who fear that such divisions threaten the secular fabric of the nation.
Dr. Abdullah called for collective action, appealing to all secular, democratic, and patriotic forces to unite against attempts to undermine India’s unity, integrity, composite culture, and constitutional secular character through divisive politics. The call for unity among secular forces is particularly significant given the historical context of communal tensions in India, which have often erupted into violence and have been exploited by political entities for electoral gains.
Addressing a gathering of senior party leaders, office-bearers, and a large number of party workers, Dr. Farooq stated, “India’s freedom was not won by any single community or religion but was secured through the collective sacrifices of people belonging to every faith, region, and background.” This statement underscores the inclusive narrative that has been a cornerstone of India's national identity since its independence in 1947. The struggle for freedom involved people from diverse backgrounds coming together to challenge colonial rule, emphasizing that unity in diversity is essential for the nation’s survival.
He emphasized that the Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the fundamental rights to equality, religious freedom, freedom of expression, and justice, adding that these constitutional and democratic values continue to constitute the bedrock of the nation’s unity, strength, and progress. The Constitution, adopted in 1950, enshrines the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, which are crucial in maintaining social harmony and preventing the marginalization of any community.
Referring to Jammu & Kashmir’s constitutional relationship with the Union of India, Dr. Farooq remarked that the accession of the erstwhile State was accompanied by specific constitutional assurances under which it enjoyed a distinct constitutional position. The special status granted to Jammu & Kashmir under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution was intended to recognize the unique circumstances surrounding its accession, including its historical, cultural, and demographic distinctiveness.
He expressed regret that these constitutional guarantees were diluted over the decades, ultimately culminating in the abrogation of the region’s special constitutional status in August 2019. This move was met with widespread criticism and concern, not only from political leaders in Jammu & Kashmir but also from various civil rights organizations and international observers, who argued that it undermined the democratic rights of the people in the region.
Reaffirming the party’s longstanding position, he stated that the National Conference would continue its peaceful, democratic, and constitutional struggle for the restoration of Jammu & Kashmir’s special constitutional status and the constitutional rights of its people. The National Conference has historically played a significant role in the political landscape of Jammu & Kashmir, advocating for the rights and interests of its residents, and Dr. Abdullah's commitment to a peaceful struggle reflects a broader strategy aimed at garnering support from various quarters, including civil society and political allies.
Emphasizing the universal message of faith, Dr. Farooq asserted that all religions preach humanity, peace, justice, compassion, tolerance, brotherhood, and mutual respect, and that no religion sanctions hatred, violence, oppression, or the killing of innocent people. This assertion is particularly poignant in the current climate where religious sentiments are often politicized, leading to conflicts and tensions between different communities. By invoking the core tenets of various faiths, Dr. Abdullah seeks to remind citizens of the shared values that transcend religious boundaries.
He recalled the immense contribution of minorities to India’s freedom struggle, noting that they had rendered invaluable sacrifices for the country’s independence. This acknowledgment of the contributions of diverse communities is essential in fostering a sense of belonging and unity among all citizens, reinforcing the idea that India's strength lies in its diversity.
At the same time, he expressed concern over what he described as increasing instances of injustice, inequality, and discrimination faced by minority communities, alleging that systematic attempts were being made to erode their constitutional and democratic rights. This observation highlights a growing sentiment among various groups who feel marginalized in the current political environment, raising questions about the future of India's secularism and democracy.
Urging citizens to reject the politics of hatred, division, and polarization, Dr. Farooq called upon people across the country to uphold the values of communal harmony, constitutionalism, democratic traditions, inclusiveness, and national unity. The importance of these values cannot be overstated in a nation as diverse as India, where differing beliefs and practices coexist. The promotion of communal harmony is essential for maintaining peace and stability, which are prerequisites for socio-economic development.
He concluded by stating that only by strengthening these foundational principles could India continue to advance on the path of peace, stability, progress, and prosperity. The implications of his call for unity among secular forces resonate beyond the immediate political context, suggesting that a collective effort is necessary to safeguard the democratic ethos of the nation and ensure that all citizens, regardless of their background, can live with dignity and respect. As India navigates its complex socio-political landscape, the emphasis on unity, tolerance, and inclusive governance will be crucial in addressing the challenges that lie ahead.
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