Omar Abdullah Endorses Government's Diplomatic Outreach Amid Pakistan Tensions

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has shown robust support for the government's decision to send an all-party parliamentary delegation to key nations amid rising tensions with Pakistan. He emphasized the importance of articulating India's position globally and reassured that the ceasefire along the Line of Control remains intact. Abdullah also addressed the significant decline in tourism following recent attacks and reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring the safety of pilgrims during the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. His remarks highlight the dual focus on diplomatic outreach and local safety measures.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 17, 2025, 16:09 IST

Support for Diplomatic Delegation

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has voiced his strong endorsement of the government's initiative to dispatch an all-party parliamentary delegation to significant nations following recent conflicts with Pakistan. He characterized this action as a courageous move, drawing parallels to similar diplomatic efforts made during former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's administration after the Parliament attack.

Importance of India's Global Voice

In a conversation with the media, Abdullah emphasized the necessity of presenting India's position on the global stage. He remarked, "This presents a valuable opportunity to express India's perspective," expressing his support for the initiative aimed at enhancing international understanding and backing.

Ceasefire Agreement Status

When questioned about the durability of the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, the Chief Minister noted that the current conditions along the Line of Control (LoC) indicate that the ceasefire remains effective, with no violations reported from either side. He mentioned that assessments of damages are in progress, and once completed, the government will ensure compensation for those affected in the LoC and surrounding border regions. "If necessary, we will request assistance from the Centre to aid those in need," he added.

Tourism Challenges

Addressing the impact of recent events on tourism, particularly following the attack in Pahalgam, Abdullah recognized the difficulties the sector is facing. He stated, "Tourism has suffered significantly, and there are very few visitors this summer season."

Commitment to Pilgrim Safety

Looking forward, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government's dedication to ensuring the safety of pilgrims during the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. He stated, "Our focus is now on the Amarnath Yatra, and we want to guarantee that every pilgrim departs safely from here." Abdullah highlighted the necessity of an incident-free pilgrimage before shifting focus to rejuvenating tourism in the area.