National Conference President Farooq Abdullah has called for the resumption of dialogue between India and Pakistan, arguing that military confrontation cannot resolve political disputes. He also urged Pakistan to abandon terrorism and create conditions for meaningful engagement. His remarks come amid recent terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

Why in the News?

On November 12, 2026, Farooq Abdullah called for dialogue between India and Pakistan. He argued that waiting for complete cessation of hostilities before starting talks could delay the peace process.

  • He also called for the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to promote regional cooperation.
  • He reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India.

Farooq Abdullah's Views on India-Pakistan Relations

He stated that bullets and military action cannot resolve political disputes. Meaningful dialogue should begin without waiting for all hostilities to end. He urged Pakistan to abandon terrorism and create a conducive atmosphere for talks.

  • Peaceful Resolution: Referring to the destruction caused by ongoing conflicts in Iran and Ukraine, he emphasised that lasting solutions can emerge only through negotiations.
  • Kashmir: He reiterated that Kashmir was, is and will remain an integral part of India. He also said that Pakistan must stop repeatedly raising the Kashmir issue.

Call for Revival of SAARC

Farooq Abdullah called for reviving SAARC to strengthen regional cooperation and promote collective development.

  • He emphasised that regional countries should come together, resolve their differences and work towards economic and social progress.
  • He referred to the European Union as an example of former adversaries building a common future through cooperation.
  • He also recalled former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's approach of maintaining cordial and cooperative relations with neighbouring countries.

Recent Terror Attacks in Jammu and Kashmir

His remarks came after twin terror attacks in Kulgam and Kishtwar districts, which highlighted the continuing security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir.

  • Casualties: Two Special Police Officers (SPOs) were killed.
  • Injuries: Three CRPF personnel were injured within two days.
  • Abdullah expressed concern over claims that terrorism had ended in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • He stated that recent incidents show that the threat continues to exist and requires concrete measures.
  • He also urged people not to live in fear while maintaining that terrorism must be eliminated.

Historical Reference: 1947 Tribal Invasion

Clarifying his earlier remarks about Pakistan, Abdullah referred to the 1947 tribal invasion of Jammu and Kashmir.

  • He recalled atrocities committed during the invasion, including the killing of a Christian doctor and his family and the rape of nuns at a hospital in Baramulla.
  • He said his earlier remarks had been misrepresented.

About SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation)

  • Established: 1985.
  • Headquarters: Kathmandu, Nepal.
  • Secretariat established: 1987.
  • Members: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
  • Objective: To promote the welfare of people in South Asia through regional cooperation and economic, social and cultural development.

Conclusion

Farooq Abdullah's remarks highlight the continuing debate over dialogue and security in India-Pakistan relations. While terrorism remains a major challenge, regional cooperation and peaceful engagement are important for long-term stability. The revival of SAARC could also provide a platform for addressing shared regional challenges.