Separatists have no right to talk about Article 35A: Omar Abdullah

SRINAGAR: The opposition National Conference has started a campaign in J&K to ‘inform’ people about Article 35A.

Former CM and NC leader Omar Abdullah said abrogation would do the worst damage to the state and termed it as a conspiracy to rob J&K of its special status. It would not only adversely affect the Kashmir valley but also Jammu and other regions as well, he said.

A petition filed in the Supreme Court challenging the Article 35A has triggered a widespread political debate over the issue in the state. Some groups have demanded a special assembly session to pass resolutions defending the special status of the state, especially ensured through Article 35A and Article 370.

“If 35A was removed, one day will come when in government offices nobody can understand your language. Dogri, Pahari, Kashmiri, Ladakhi, Sheena, nobody can speak these languages,” Abdullah said while addressing a convention in Jammu. “They will speak to you in alien languages. Not only will jobs squeeze for local youth but our business sector too shall suffer tremors with influx of traders from outside the state.”