Yogesh
Jammu, Aug 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah invoked renowned poet Faiz Ahmad Faiz during his TEDx talk in Jammu on Saturday, declaring “chale chalo ki vo manzil abhi nahin aayi” (Let us keep walking, for the goal has not yet been reached) as he urged the youth to push beyond borders, stereotypes and self-imposed limits.
The Chief Minister said that certain boundaries are essential for maintaining order and security, but several others, stemming from prejudice, self-doubt, or inflexible thinking, impede progress.
“We all encounter limitations. Some are beneficial to us, while many are not. We are constrained by geographical limitations, national borders, and protective legislation. However, there exist limitations dictated by prejudices and our personal fears. These must be contested,” he said.
Speaking to a hall full of students, besides other eminent speakers and the school administration, the Chief Minister said people often create self-imposed boundaries shaped by experiences or stereotypes. “These limits may be real or imagined, but every great exploration and advancement of civilisation has come from crossing boundaries,” he said.
Omar elucidated that his appeal was not to dismiss regulations or laws, but to oppose constraints that hinder development. He observed that had explorers not transgressed boundaries, the planet would have remained uncharted. “Boundaries exist to be transcended,” he said, adding that artificial distinctions should not become enduring constraints.
The Chief Minister employed commonplace illustrations like gender roles, educational settings, and individual anxieties to elucidate his argument. “What is the rationale behind the notion that boys should refrain from crying? What are the reasons against girls participating in football? What rationale exists for dissuading a pupil from enquiring? These are imperceptible barriers designed to restrain us,” he said.
Abdullah acknowledged his own limits, conceding that despite decades in politics, he still experienced anxiety when speaking in public. “My knees continue to quiver and my hands remain unsteady,” he said.
Omar urged students to aspire to greatness, saying: “You were not born to conform. You were destined to distinguish yourself and establish your own niche. Do not allow someone to assert that your gender, ethnicity, or look will dictate your accomplishments.”
He advised the students to speak up, ask questions and never let hesitation silence them. Gender, background or appearance, he added, should never be hurdles to achievement.
The event, organised by JK Public School under the subject “Beyond Boundaries,” saw Omar commencing and concluding his speech with Urdu couplets. He encouraged the youth to establish lofty objectives, articulate their opinions, and persistently enquire. “Do not permit limitations to define your objectives.” “Do not permit them to hinder your aspirations,” he said.
Other speakers who shared their ideas at the event included educationists such as Prof Amitabh Mattoo and Usha Mani.
