India’s real strength lies in its diversity: Dr Farooq

Kerala, Feb 18: At a time when the country’s democratic values and secular fabric are facing serious challenges, President of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, said that Kerala’s approach of respecting all religions and every human being equally serves as a model for the entire nation. He observed that the democracy visible in the country today is not the democracy for which the people of India had struggled.
He made these remarks while addressing the Vision 2031 International Conference organized by the State Planning Board in Kerala. The event was attended by the state’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, cabinet ministers, prominent leaders from various states and Members of Parliament.
Praising the atmosphere of religious harmony in Kerala, Dr. Farooq Abdullah also commended the state’s governance and developmental achievements. He said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, the government is promoting the state and Kerala’s culture in a commendable manner. This model of governance respects every religion and every individual, which is why Kerala is a matter of pride not only for its own people but for the entire country. He also described the eradication of extreme poverty in Kerala as a major and remarkable achievement.
He further stated that India is currently passing through a significant crisis in which speaking the truth has become the greatest challenge. He alleged that sections of the media, including mainstream outlets, are attempting to shape public opinion by promoting falsehoods while concealing the truth.
Emphasizing that Kashmiris are proud Indians and will always remain so, he said that India’s real strength lies in its diversity, and if unity within diversity weakens, the nation itself will weaken. He asserted that fascist forces, no matter how hard they try, will not succeed and will eventually become part of history.
During his address, Dr. Farooq expressed economic concerns regarding the Indo–US trade agreement, particularly its potential impact on the horticulture sector of Jammu and Kashmir. He warned that growers of apples, walnuts, and almonds would be severely affected. He noted that no clear policy has yet been presented by the central government in this regard and questioned how local producers would be able to compete if imported goods enter the domestic market in large quantities.
Criticizing the excessive centralization of powers, he expressed dissatisfaction with the current system of governing Jammu and Kashmir as a Union Territory. He stated that many legislative decisions remain pending and that greater clarity and transparency are needed in administrative matters. He reiterated his long-standing demand for the restoration of statehood and genuine federal balance, stressing that India’s constitutional framework requires a fair distribution of powers between the Centre and the States.
Discussing the security situation, Dr. Farooq said that the abrogation of Article 370 was presented as a solution to terrorism, yet violence has not completely ceased. Referring to past incidents such as Pulwama, Pahalgam, and Udhampur, he questioned whether the promise of lasting peace has truly been fulfilled.
Dr. Farooq reiterated his appeal for unity and mutual understanding. He urged citizens across the country to support efforts aimed at restoring peace, dignity, and democratic trust in Jammu and Kashmir, and to demonstrate a shared sense of responsibility.