Darbar move promoted unity, harmony: Farooq Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Sunday emphasised the importance of the annual Darbar Move as a tradition that promotes unity and harmony among all regions.

The remarks were made during the commemorative function honoring the 92nd birth anniversary of former Deputy CM of J&K late Mangat Ram Sharma, which was celebrated in Jammu.

Farooq Abdullah, the chief guest at the event, emphasised the importance of unity and harmony in order to bring development benefits to the troubled region. Also present on the occasion were JKPCC chief Tariq Hamid Kara, JKPCC working president Raman Bhalla and JKNC provincial president Rattan Lal Gupta.

Farooq highlighted that India is a country rich in diversity, with each region boasting its own unique culture, language, and set of challenges that require localised solutions. He noted that Jammu and Kashmir, in particular, is a region with a diverse culture, and Darbar move was established to promote unity in diversity.

“The primary objective of this traditional annual move was not only to bring together two regions but also to enhance trade and community relations,” he added.

Farooq expressed his disappointment that the BJP viewed this tradition as a hindrance to their agenda, leading to its discontinuation. However, he stressed the importance of reviving this practice to bridge divisions, a goal that the Omar Abdullah-led NC government was actively pursuing. He assured that the government would focus on not only promoting development but also fostering unity among the people.

Attacking BJP, he said that the current state of affairs in Jammu, particularly in terms of roads and infrastructure, exposes the lack of concern the BJP has for the region. “The numerous potholes, unreliable power supply, high unemployment rates, toll plazas, job outsourcing, and mining activities, as well as the influx of big retail players, all serve as glaring examples of the BJP's indifference towards the local population. The promises made by the BJP have proven to be nothing but empty words, as nearly a decade has passed with little to show for it. Where are the promised jobs, new roads, schools, and hospitals? However, with Omar Abdullah leading a democratic government, the Jammu region can finally look forward to comprehensive development,” he added.