Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has raised concerns about the security situation in the region, questioning the claimed normalcy by the BJP government at the Centre nearly five years after the abrogation of Article 370. Speaking at the Red Mike Dialogues in New Delhi, Abdullah expressed his skepticism, stating that the perceived normalcy in the Union Territory is not organic but rather forced.
Abdullah emphasized that true normalcy cannot be sustained through fear and control, highlighting instances where actions have been taken out of apprehension rather than genuine peace. He pointed out the closure of Jama Masjid in Srinagar and the denial of permission for Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to lead funeral prayers for his father-in-law as examples of the authorities’ cautious approach due to the fear of potential unrest.
The former chief minister also drew attention to Mirwaiz’s CRPF security cover, questioning the necessity for such protection if the situation in Jammu and Kashmir was indeed stable. Abdullah noted that the need for CRPF security indicated a heightened threat level and a lack of genuine progress in ensuring peace and stability in the region.
Addressing the backlash he faced for his remarks regarding Mirwaiz’s security, Abdullah clarified that his intention was not to downplay the significance of the security measures but to underscore the underlying issues that persist in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that the current security arrangements, including the use of CRPF protection for Mirwaiz, reflected a reality where the situation had not improved as significantly as claimed.
Reflecting on the historical context of the security concerns in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah highlighted the tragic event of Mirwaiz’s father’s assassination, emphasizing the ongoing threats faced by prominent figures in the region. He stressed that the need for heightened security measures, such as CRPF protection, indicated a deterioration in the security situation rather than a genuine sense of normalcy.
In conclusion, Abdullah reiterated his stance that the perceived normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir is not organic but rather imposed, driven by fear and control rather than genuine peace. He called for a reevaluation of the security measures in place and a renewed focus on addressing the underlying issues that continue to challenge the region’s stability.
As the discussion surrounding the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the nuanced complexities that shape the perceptions of normalcy and peace in the region. The concerns raised by Abdullah serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges and the need for a comprehensive approach to security and stability in the Union Territory.
