SRINAGAR: In a strongly worded statement, Rajya Sabha MP Er. Gulam Ali Khatana has criticized former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s recent remarks linking terrorist attacks to the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. Khatana expressed deep disappointment over what he termed “misguided rhetoric” from Abdullah.
The MP asserted that Abdullah’s comments reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of the transformative changes in J&K under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Khatana dismissed Abdullah’s claim that the abrogation of Article 370 failed to stop militancy, calling it shortsighted and ignorant of the region’s significant progress since the historic decision.
Khatana pointed out Abdullah’s recent electoral defeat in the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat, suggesting it indicates his disconnect from the new realities of a developing J&K. The MP accused the Abdullah and Mufti dynasties of exploiting youth for political gain over decades, contrasting their approach with PM Modi Ji’s efforts to provide a bright future for young Kashmiris.
Highlighting the post-Article 370 era, Khatana described a J&K experiencing unprecedented development, with projects worth thousands of crores transforming the region. He noted the shift from headlines about stone-throwing to stories of economic advancement and social upliftment.
The MP lauded various government schemes, particularly the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), for providing direct financial assistance to both urban and rural residents. “Gone are the days when the poor had to perform menial tasks for bureaucrats and politicians just to secure government support for building their homes. Today, entitled citizens receive their pensions directly in their bank accounts, without having to wait in long queues or navigate complex procedures”, he said, and emphasized the elimination of bureaucratic hurdles and the dismantling of middleman culture under the Modi government.
“PM Modi Ji has decentralized power, empowering local bodies so that public representatives now receive sufficient funds for every constituency, from Panchayats to the Lok Sabha without any discrimination,” said the MP.
“The Kashmiri Awam is dedicated to peace and progress, contributing wholeheartedly to eliminating terrorism from the soil of Sufism. Our security forces, under the able leadership of Prime Minister Modi Ji, have broken the backbone of terrorists, and terrorism is on its last leg. Soon, we will rid ourselves of it,” said the MP, highlighting the collective efforts of the Kashmiri people in combating terrorism.
Reassuring the nation about the security situation, the MP expressed confidence in the current leadership’s ability to maintain safety and order. “The country is in safe hands, Mr. Abdullah; you should not worry,” he stated, underscoring the progress made in the fight against terrorism and the strengthened security measures. By recognizing the contributions of Kashmiris in fighting terrorism, the MP aimed to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose in continuing the region’s path toward peace and development.
MP Khatana firmly addressed the issue of local support for terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, stating, “Certainly, there are some anti-national elements who provide logistical support to our enemies. They will be dealt with an iron hand.”
Expressing frustration at Abdullahs apparent inability to acknowledge these achievements, Khatana argued that the focus in J&K has shifted from conflict to development. He cited the people’s participation in democratic processes and embrace of development initiatives as a clear rejection of divisive politics.
Khatana called on political leaders to support the aspirations of the people, declaring the end of using Article 370 as a political tool. He urged Abdullah to shed outdated perspectives and join efforts to build a prosperous J&K.
