Article 370 Was Originally Meant to Protect Dogra Land: Farooq Abdullah

Slams PDP, Calls for Introspection, and Highlights Internal Challenges Facing India

Jammu, Jan 22: National Conference (NC) President Dr. Farooq Abdullah has stated that Article 370 was originally introduced in 1927 by the Maharajas to safeguard the land and identity of the Dogra community in Jammu and Kashmir, rather than for the benefit of Kashmiris.

Addressing party workers in Jammu, Dr. Abdullah emphasized that the provision was brought to address concerns that people from Punjab might settle in the region, thereby protecting Dogra land. “It was never about Kashmiris but about the Dogras. Nobody will settle in Kashmir because they are afraid of Muslims,” he remarked.

He criticized the narrative that Hindus in India are under threat, calling it baseless. “There is no external threat to the country, but internal issues pose significant challenges. Propaganda is being used to create unnecessary fear despite 80 percent of the population being in no real danger,” he said.

Dr. Abdullah urged his party workers to reflect on the changes brought about in recent years and assess both losses and gains.

He also took a sharp jab at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), blaming its late founder, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, for forming an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during his tenure. “When the coalition was being formed, NC, Congress, and other parties had offered support, but Mufti chose to bring the BJP into Jammu and Kashmir. The PDP should introspect on its decisions and their consequences,” he added.

Highlighting the NC’s commitment to the welfare of the people, Dr. Abdullah asserted that no one could dictate the current administration, as Omar Abdullah’s leadership is focused on addressing the needs and aspirations of the people.