Pakistan Uncomfortable With Democracy In J&K, Says Omar Abdullah's Party
NC says Pakistan opposes political progress in Jammu and Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir's ruling National Conference has strongly rejected criticism from Pakistan over the Omar Abdullah-led government, asserting that Islamabad remains uncomfortable with democratic and constitutional political processes in the Union Territory. The response came after Pakistan accused the elected administration of being complicit in what it described as the "defacement" of the Muslim identity of Jammu and Kashmir.
The remarks were made by Tahir Andrabi, spokesperson for Pakistan's Foreign Ministry, who criticised the Jammu and Kashmir government while commenting on the recent demolition of houses belonging to Gujjar tribal families in Jammu. Andrabi alleged that the demolitions formed part of a broader effort to alter the region's demographic and cultural character and claimed that Pakistan was closely monitoring developments through its foreign ministry.
The controversy stems from an anti-encroachment drive carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir administration last month, during which several structures were demolished. Following public concern and criticism, the government ordered an inquiry into the demolition of tribal homes. The issue has since drawn attention both within and outside the region, with political parties and community groups seeking accountability and clarification regarding the action.
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Responding to Pakistan's statements, National Conference chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq said the comments reflected Islamabad's discomfort with electoral politics and democratic institutions in Jammu and Kashmir. He argued that Pakistan has historically dismissed elected governments in the region as "puppets" and continues to undermine political processes rooted in elections, constitutional engagement and public mandate.
The party further noted that elected representatives in Jammu and Kashmir are currently pursuing democratic and constitutional means to press for the restoration of statehood and constitutional guarantees. According to the National Conference, these demands arise from commitments made by the Government of India and are supported by the aspirations of the people of the Union Territory.
The exchange marks the first major instance since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 and the formation of an elected government in 2024 in which Pakistan has directly targeted the administration led by Omar Abdullah. While Islamabad has pledged to raise the matter on international platforms, the National Conference has maintained that it does not require validation from Pakistan and will continue to pursue its political objectives through democratic channels.
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