Srinagar: Farooq Abdullah, President of the National Conference, has criticized the Indian government’s assertions of restoring peace in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, pointing out the contradiction presented by the heavy military deployment in the region.

According to Kashmir Media Service, during a media interview, Abdullah questioned the reality of the government’s peace narrative. “If there is peace, why are there so many armed forces personnel on the roads? Look at how heavily armed they are — does this signify peace?” he asked, calling for the immediate restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.

Abdullah also criticized the role of the Lieutenant Governor of IIOJK, Manoj Sinha, likening his authority to that of a colonial viceroy. He expressed concern over the direct control exercised by Delhi through the Lieutenant Governor, questioning the need for such governance.

Furthermore, the 88-year-old leader denounced the central government’s decision to abrogate Article 370, which was defended by claims of addressing terrorism in the area. He observed that despite the abrogation occurring five years ago, the promised peace and order have not materialized.

Abdullah also accused the BJP of fostering communal divisions among the population.