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Sachnews Jammu Kashmir
Srinagar, April 14: National Conference (NC) President and veteran political leader Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Monday addressed key political and social issues, including the Waqf Amendment Bill, India’s Hajj quota cut by Saudi Arabia, and the performance of the Jammu and Kashmir government under NC leadership.
According to Sachnews Jammu Kashmir, Dr. Abdullah termed Waqf Amendment Bill “against the Constitution” and said the matter should not be discussed while it is under judicial consideration.
“This Bill is unconstitutional. The Speaker (of J&K Assembly) made a good decision of not allowing discussion on this, as the matter is sub judice and currently before the Supreme Court. We can speak on it only after the court’s verdict,” he said.
He further criticized the conduct of the opposition, stating, “The Opposition here is only meant to oppose, not to offer healthy or constructive criticism.”
Turning to the issue of Saudi Arabia’s reported reduction in India’s private Hajj quota, Dr. Abdullah made a direct appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“I urge the Prime Minister to speak with the Saudi leadership and request them not to reduce India’s Hajj quota. This is not just about pilgrimage, jobs are also at stake,” he emphasized.
He added that he would ask J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to write formally to the Prime Minister in this regard.
When asked about the NC government's performance in the last six months, Dr. Abdullah urged patience and long-term assessment.
“We are standing firm on the promises we made. Ask us again after five years what we’ve achieved, that will be the real measure,” he said confidently.