Kashmir Digits

Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah gave a stinging interview on a “TIMES NOW” news channel regarding the abrogation of 370.

The interview in question was given on 2 August, 2021. During the interview the ex- CM was questioned on abrogation of articles 370 and 35 A. Omar Abdullah remained defiant throughout the sit down. He expressed strong views on the ruling party’s decision to revoke J&K’s special status.

Here are the main takeaways from this fiery interview

“On 15th August, 1947 it wasn’t two countries that emerged, it was three”

In a historically correct reference Omar Abdullah said not two but three countries emerged after 1947, India, Pakistan and Kashmir. He further went on to say that the J&K didn’t initially accede to India and that accession was forced due to circumstances. He also said that accession was conditional.

On being questioned that Article 370 was a temporary resolution, he replied that the circumstances leading to its inclusion in the constitution cannot be dismissed.

“The reason it was temporary because accession of J&K to Union of India was premised on the fact that it would be ratified through a UN mandated plebiscite”, Omar said in the almost hour long interview.

India backtracked on promises

The National Conference leader also said that India and not any political party had made promises to Kashmir. “India later backtracked on promises made to people of Kashmir”, he continued saying.

In a comment which stunned the anchor, Omar said, ” Former PM of India Narasimha Rao said that short of azaadi, sky is the limit for Kashmiris”.

Article 370 removal changed nothing.

In an attack on media the third generation Abdullah said, “When article 370 was scrapped, media claimed that only thing it was the only thing that stood between Kashmiri Pandits and a return to valley.

“I want to ask how many Pandits have returned to the valley since last two years”? as he questioned the removal of article 370. However, Omar said he was alright with correction of article 35A in gender bias issue but not complete abrogation.

Talks with Pakistan should take place

“How can you say talks are not going on with Pakistan”? Omar replied when the anchor said should Pakistan be involved in talks. He stressed that India will need assurances from India on sticking issues including terrorism. He also said that both countries need to produce conducive atmosphere for talks.

Trust deficit exists

When questioned about why Kashmiris feel alienated, Omar said that this was due to broken promises. He said that PM Modi himself said that he wants to erase Dil ki duri and Dilli se duri, which implied that a trust deficit exists.

“If I can be locked up, what will happen to normal Kashmiri”

He slammed JK police order on security clearance for passports. He said anyone can be targeted using this order and proven guilty. Although the anchor mentions that this will only be done after completed evidences. But Omar points to his own arrest saying police justified his arrest on the basis of dossier and formed a case.

These strong views and opinions took the anchor by surprise as evident by the sometimes silence of the usually talkative host.