Politically empowered people hold key to change: Farooq

Jammu, Feb 21: National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah Monday exhorted the cadre across Jammu and Kashmir to remain steadfast in their resolve of serving the people and strengthening bonds of inclusiveness—the political philosophy of the party that has withstood the test of times.
“Emergence of National Conference as a big political force is an eyesore for elements opposed to J&K’s spirit of amity, brotherhood, harmony and inclusiveness”, Dr Abdullah said while reviewing the functioning of the party units in Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley regions of the Jammu Province.
Dr Farooq Abdullah said that massive support to the National Conference in every nook and corner of Jammu and Kashmir is reflective of the deep faith of the people in the party, which has met the challenges with courage and fortitude. The strength of the party emanates from the people at ground zero and there is a need to channelize this support for the betterment of the people, irrespective of caste, creed, region or religion. He said the National Conference has all along cherished the great values of the pluralistic ethos that has actually been a binding force between the regions and religions. This spirit has not only to be sustained but promoted in a big way to keep at bay the divisive forces, he added.
The NC President complimented party functionaries for mass outreach in their areas, saying this will further galvanise the party at the grassroots level. The politically empowered people hold the key to change and given their sagacity and sense of understanding the day is not far when they will become the masters of their own destiny. He said the people were the real fountain of power and the power is not to rule but to serve humanity. This has been the core of our political philosophy, he maintained.
Dr Farooq Abdullah complimented the people in general and the party cadre in particular for their commitment to the secular ethos and hoped that this glorious tradition will continue to inspire the generations. He said unity in diversity is the real strength of Jammu and Kashmir and “this is what has seen us overcome all the challenges”. He called for strengthening the cadre at all the levels. (GNS)