Cooperation with centre doesn’t mean blind acceptance: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Jan 17: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has clarified his position on working with the Government of India, asserting that collaboration does not imply unconditional agreement with its policies.
Speaking to a Delhi-based media outlet while enjoying skiing at picturesque Gulmarg, Omar Abdullah addressed criticisms over his approach to the contentious issue of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir until its abrogation in 2019.
“Working with the Government of India doesn’t mean that I accept everything that they do,” Abdullah said. He added, “Should I pick a fight with the government of India when at the moment there isn’t a need for one?”
When confronted with allegations from locals accusing him of abandoning the demand for the restoration of Article 370, Omar Abdullah responded: “I know there are some people who would like nothing more than to see us fight,” he stated. “It is foolish to believe that the people who took away (special status) from us are going to give it back to us.” [KNT]