Srinagar, 01 Aug (KNS) : The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Saturday expressed profound grief over the targeted killing of two non local labourers in Keelam, Kulgam. He strongly condemned the incident and demanded a fair, transparent and time-bound investigation to identify and punish the perpetrators of crime.
In a statement issued , Dr. Farooq described the killings as tragic and deeply disturbing, saying such acts were aimed at vitiating the peaceful atmosphere and undermining stability in Jammu and Kashmir.
"The killing of innocent labourers is deeply unfortunate. We do not know who is behind these attacks or who seeks to destabilise the situation. There must be an impartial, transparent and credible investigation to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice," he said.
Questioning the timing of such incidents, Dr. Farooq said, "It is difficult to ignore that whenever the demand for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood gains momentum, such disturbing incidents occur. Why does this repeatedly happen? The people deserve credible answers."
Earlier, while addressing party office-bearers and workers, Dr. Farooq urged every National Conference functionary to remain steadfast, united and unwavering in pursuing the party's democratic struggle.
He said the National Conference's mission extends beyond the restoration of statehood and encompasses the recovery of all constitutional, democratic and political rights that have been taken away from the people of Jammu and Kashmir.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Emphasising the need for unity, Dr. Farooq said the people of Jammu and Kashmir, irrespective of region, religion or community, must stand together to safeguard peace, democracy and constitutional values while facing every challenge with patience, resilience and determination.
Calling upon the Union Government to honour its commitments, he said there should be no further delay in restoring Jammu and Kashmir's statehood. He observed that a trust deficit continues to persist between the people of the region and New Delhi, and asserted that rebuilding confidence requires sincere respect for the democratic aspirations, constitutional rights and sentiments of the people.
Reiterating his long-standing demand for the immediate restoration of statehood, Dr. Farooq said the reinstatement of democratic institutions in their true constitutional spirit is indispensable for lasting peace, political stability and meaningful empowerment of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Later, Dr. Farooq visited Atti Malpora, Tangmarg, to offer condolences to Party Block President Haji Abdul Razzaq Malik on the demise of his mother. He conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and wished them strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
On the occasion, rich tributes were also paid to the late Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, with special prayers offered for the eternal peace of his soul.(KNS)