Sajid Raina
Jammu, Feb 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday warned that the proposed India–US trade deal could have serious repercussions for Jammu and Kashmir’s traditional economy, particularly its horticulture and dry fruit sectors, asserting that the Union Territory stood to lose far more than it would gain from the agreement.
Addressing reporters outside the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly after proceedings were adjourned amid disruptions, CM Abdullah, said duty-free imports of American agricultural products would directly hurt local growers who depend almost entirely on horticulture-related livelihoods.
Referring to the sectors reportedly covered under the interim trade understanding, the Chief Minister said items such as tree nuts, dry fruits, fresh fruits and dairy products were central to J&K’s economy. Unlike coastal regions, he said, the Union Territory does not have a marine or seafood industry to fall back on.
“Our strength is horticulture — almonds, walnuts, saffron, apples, kiwis and similar produce. If these goods start coming in duty-free from the United States, Jammu and Kashmir is bound to suffer losses,” Omar said, adding that this was the reason behind public concern over the deal.
He maintained that while the agreement might be beneficial for other parts of the country, it did not serve the interests of J&K. “As the chief minister, it is my responsibility to speak for my people. From what we see, there is no benefit for us in this trade deal, only potential damage,” he said.
The Chief Minister’s remarks earlier in the Assembly triggered sharp protests from BJP legislators, who objected to some of his comments and demanded an apology. The situation escalated into a ruckus, forcing Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather to adjourn the House for the day while Abdullah was winding up a discussion on the Union Territory’s Budget presented on February 6.
Responding to the BJP’s demand for an apology, the Chief Minister said there was no question of apologising now, as he was not allowed to clarify or withdraw his words during the disruptions.
“Had they allowed me even a moment to speak, I was prepared to withdraw my words and make the same point differently. But since I was not allowed to speak, what has been said is already on record,” he said.
Omar also questioned whom he was expected to apologise to, alleging that some of those lecturing others on nationalism and the Constitution had themselves failed to uphold decorum. Without naming individuals initially, he said certain leaders who frequently invoke patriotism could not even sit through the entire Republic Day.
Later, he referred specifically to the Leader of Opposition (LoP), alleging that he had left the Republic Day function midway. “People who cannot remain present for national events should not lecture others on nationalism,” the Chief Minister said.
Abdullah further claimed that BJP members were upset not because of the language used, but because he had placed uncomfortable economic realities before the public. “What benefits the rest of the country does not automatically benefit Jammu and Kashmir. My job is to protect the interests of the people here,” he said.
The Chief Minister said his remarks on the trade deal were based on economic facts and the structure of J&K’s economy, asserting that raising these concerns was part of his constitutional duty.
On a separate issue, Omar rejected suggestions that the administration facilitates the annual Amarnath Yatra under pressure. He said Kashmiris had historically played a central role in ensuring the success of the pilgrimage. “The Yatra is not possible without the people of Kashmir. They have always supported it and will continue to do so,” he said.
Responding to a question on a proposed cricket match involving Pakistan, the J&K CM remarked that threats should not be issued lightly. “Those who do not have the strength to stand behind a threat should not make one. Let them come and play, and whatever happens will happen on the field,” he said.
