SRINAGAR: The president of the National Conference, Dr. Farooq “Abdullah, last week claimed the support of the United States for his party’s demand for greater authority to Jammu ‘and Kashmir and conversion of the ‘existing Line of Control into a “soft border” between India and Pakistan,
Addressing nearly 300 party supporters on the occasion of 91st birth ‘anniversary of his father Sheikh Mohamad Abdullah, Dr. Abdullah said the US support to his formula on ‘Kashmir imbroglio was conveyed to him by Ms. Robin Raphel during their latest meeting in New Delhi. “She also agreed with me this time that either Delhi gives us autonomy now ‘or the issue would drag on endlessly,” ‘he said without naming Ms. Raphel
Last week was the biggest ever memorial gathering at the mausoleum of Sheikh Abdullah on the banks of Dal ‘Lake, during years of militancy. Most of the gathering comprised the heavily protected National Conference leaders and veteran party workers continuing to live amidst unguarded arc as of Valley. Dr. Abdullah appeared sober compared to his belligerent stand earlier, He advised flexibility of approach rather than political rigidity to his party men, “Let’s not get involved in complicating things for everyone. Please join everyone in restoring peace and honor of Kashmiris,” the NC chief said.
Dr. Abdullah warned Center against more dithering on party’s demand for internal autonomy to Jand K. He said Kashmir was likely to emerge as a major international issue unless the Center joined hands with the NC and other political parties keen on settling things within Indian Constitution.
The NC leader, amidst slogans for communal amity, asked his party men to ensure return of Hindus to Valley.
The gathering timed an all-party affair with leaders of the Congress.
Janata Dal, CPI, CPI (M) and the Panthers’ Party paying tributes to Sheikh Abdullah for his role as a social reformer and land reformer.
Article extracted from this publication >> December 15, 1995
