Srinagar, August 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said developments in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) had vindicated the decision taken around 80 years ago to accede the region to India.
Addressing the main Independence Day function at Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium after unfurling the Tricolour and taking the salute at a ceremonial parade, Abdullah paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives during India’s freedom struggle.
Beginning his address with Urdu poet Allama Iqbal’s famous patriotic verse, “Sare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara”, the Chief Minister described Independence Day as an occasion for both celebration and introspection.
“Today, we pay tribute to all those who laid down their lives for the freedom of our country. It is a day of happiness as well as remembrance. We must introspect whether we have truly established the India that we read about and celebrate,” he said.
Recalling the events surrounding Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India, Abdullah said local people had resisted tribal raiders before the Indian Army was deployed to the region.
“Our people fought bravely against the tribal raiders. Thousands sacrificed their lives. Looking at the situation in POJK today, I realise that the decisions taken by our ancestors 80 years ago were the right ones,” he said.
Referring to developments across the Line of Control, Abdullah said the situation in POJK remained a matter of concern.
“The situation across the border is worrisome and causes us pain. That part of Kashmir is ours, and even in our Assembly seats remain reserved for that region,” he said.
The Chief Minister also stressed the need to protect democratic institutions and strengthen the federal structure of the country.
“Protecting democracy at all costs is our greatest responsibility. What has been taken away from us should be restored so that the federal structure of our country becomes stronger,” Abdullah said.
He also referred to protests in New Delhi over national entrance examinations, saying concerns had emerged after central agencies were entrusted with conducting examinations such as NEET, which are linked to sectors traditionally administered by the states.
“National-level examinations are welcome, but state institutions should not be sidelined. Changes in examination rules and the dilution of the role of colleges have led to widespread concerns and protests,” he said.
The Independence Day function was attended by people from different sections of society amid elaborate security arrangements.
Former Chief Ministers Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti were among the prominent attendees. Contingents of the J&K Police, CRPF, BSF, Army, Fire and Emergency Services, along with schoolchildren, participated in the ceremonial parade.
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