Srinagar, July 29, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
National Conference president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday urged the Centre to speak out on recent developments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), saying that if the region is considered part of India, the government cannot remain silent over reported hardships faced by people there.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Dr Abdullah said the Indian government should raise concerns over reports of killings and alleged human rights issues in PoK if it maintains that the territory is an integral part of the country.
“If they keep saying PoK is our part, then why don’t they speak about what is happening there? Why don’t they say the killings should stop? I have not heard any statement from them,” he said.
The National Conference leader said he had earlier approached United Nations human rights mechanisms as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, seeking attention towards the reported situation in PoK.
“I have requested the United Nations Human Rights Commission to go there, assess the situation and try to resolve the problems. I have also appealed to the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister,” he said.
Dr Abdullah also raised concerns over student protests, unemployment, drug abuse and the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Referring to the ongoing student agitation, he said the protests would continue if the authorities failed to address their demands.
“If the promises made to them are not fulfilled and instead they are met with FIRs, arrests and harassment, this movement will continue,” he said.
He further said unemployment remained one of the biggest challenges facing the region and expressed concern over the increasing drug menace among youth.
The National Conference had planned a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 20 demanding restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. However, after student activities occupied the venue, the party shifted its protest to Prithviraj Road.
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