‘Pahalgam attack brought pain, we hope never to experience again’
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said that discussions on restoring Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir should be concluded soon so that people get what they have long been demanding.
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Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a special National Integration Camp organized by the Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh NCC Directorate in Srinagar, Omar reiterated his party’s position on Statehood.
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“Let the discussions on Statehood continue, but we hope they conclude soon and lead to the restoration we have been seeking,” he said.
Earlier, Omar called upon the NCC cadets from across the country to serve as ambassadors of peace, unity and harmony by sharing their positive experiences of Jammu and Kashmir with people in their home States.
“The presence of the young cadets from different parts of the country was a “morale booster” for the people of the Valley,” he said.
The 12-day camp aims to promote national integration and cultural exchange among youngsters.
“I urge you to go back and be our ambassadors. Tell your families, friends and communities about the Jammu and Kashmir you saw – the warmth of its people, the beauty of its culture and the reality beyond headlines,” he said.
Referring to the April 22 terror attack in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam that claimed 26 innocent lives, the Chief Minister said this year has “brought us pain we hoped never to experience again”.
“But even in our darkest hours, there is hope. There is light at the end of every tunnel,” he added.
Emphasising the importance of continued engagement with Kashmir, Omar urged the NCC authorities to organise future camps that include travel by train.
“Let cadets witness the incredible engineering marvels that connect the Valley to the rest of the country. It will be a journey of inspiration,” he said.
Reflecting on his own school days, the NC leader spoke about the enduring value of bonds formed during such camps.
“When you live, travel, perform and share experiences together, you build relationships that last a lifetime. Cherish them, they are priceless,” he said.
The Chief Minister underscored the strength of India’s unity in diversity, recalling the opening words of the Constitution – “We, the People of India”.
“We are united not despite our differences, but because of them. Our real strength lies in our togetherness,” he said.
“These integration camps are not just about training or cultural showcases. They symbolise the living spirit of India – an unbreakable emotional and physical bond among its people. As long as we nurture this spirit, no adversary can weaken us,” Omar asserted.
The Chief Minister welcomed the Central Government’s sanctioning of several development projects worth Rs 10,600 crore for the Union Territory. “This is no small amount,” he said, describing it as a significant boost for infrastructure development.
Highlighting long-standing demands for year-round road connectivity, Omar noted the approval of tunnel projects at key locations. “Since the completion of the Mughal Road in 2008-09, people have consistently demanded that it remain open throughout the year. A tunnel was crucial for this-and now, the budget has finally been approved,” he said.
The Chief Minister added that the demand for a tunnel at Sadhna Pass to connect Tangdhar in North Kashmir has also been met. “Similarly, people in remote areas like Gurez deserve such connectivity, and we must push for more tunnels there too,” he added.
Praising the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Omar said it instils self-confidence and discipline among the youth. “It is remarkable to see young cadets reach such heights at the age of 18. This experience empowers them, and I hope more youth join the NCC,” he said.
Welcoming cadets from outside the region, he expressed hope they would return with positive memories of Kashmir. “We cannot control the weather, but I hope they enjoyed their time here. When they go back, they should encourage others to visit Kashmir,” he said.
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