Can’t change neighbours, so must talk: CM Omar pitches for Pakistan dialogue

Shopian: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday made a fresh push for resumption of dialogue with Pakistan, asserting that seeking peace should not invite charges of anti-nationalism, even as he flagged a “double standard” in how such appeals are treated.

“Friends can be changed, but neighbours cannot,” CM Omar told reporters during his visit to Shopian as per news agency Kashmir News Service quoting former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to underscore that geography left no room for avoiding engagement.

Responding to a question about a recent letter reportedly addressed to the Prime Minister seeking better bilateral ties, the Chief Minister said there was “nothing wrong” in advocating peace. He, however, acknowledged that cross-border tensions had persisted for decades and had only worsened after the Pahalgam terror attack last year.

CM Omar also took objection to the selective outrage that greets such appeals, pointing out that his party’s consistent position on dialogue was being subjected to “unfair criticism” while similar statements from RSS-affiliated quarters drew no such flak.

“Our position on dialogue with Pakistan is not new. It has been consistent for decades. But when we speak, we are accused of being anti-national. Why do similar remarks by leaders from Jammu and Kashmir invite sharp criticism, while statements favouring dialogue by senior RSS leaders do not?” he asked.

He reiterated that his objective was to see improved relations through dialogue and peaceful engagement, stressing that lasting peace and stability could only come through communication.