The Tribune Interview: Omar needs help to navigate Srinagar-Delhi relationship, says former RAW chief Dulat

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah needs help in his new job, particularly in navigating the complex relationship between Srinagar and Delhi, former chief of Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and long-time Kashmir watcher Amarjit Singh Dulat has said.

In an exclusive interview with The Tribune, Dulat hailed Abdullah’s win as a “great election for Kashmir” and a “victory for the National Conference”. Abdullah’s National Conference secured 42 seats, while BJP won 29 seats, mostly in the Jammu region.

The former external intelligence chief attributed the party’s success to its ability to adapt to the changing political landscape, particularly after the abrogation of Article 370. Dulat said Kashmiris have realised that the Article that gave special status to the former state will not be restored.

On the other hand, restoration of statehood is now the key issue and a “test of the century” for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. He expressed hope that Delhi would not dilly-dally on the issue, as it is crucial for the state’s stability, he added.

Dulat also suggested that there could be an implied quid pro quo between Delhi and Srinagar, with statehood restoration in exchange for a good relationship and not raking up Article 370 by the new government.

The former intelligence chief observed that the Congress party’s poor performance in Jammu was surprising, while BJP’s strong showing in the region was expected. Dulat attributed the Congress’ poor performance in Jammu to lack of effort, stating, “They didn’t work hard enough.” He praised BJP for working hard and reaping the dividend.

He attributed the National Conference’s failure to make inroads in Jammu to its perceived image as a Kashmir-centric party.

Regarding the role of Independents aligned with Jamaat-e-Islami, Dulat said they were rejected by the public, with many losing their deposits. He believed the Jamaat voted for the National Conference, citing the logic of supporting the winning side.

He emphasised the need for Delhi to engage with Pakistan and the separatist leaders, citing the example of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who has expressed willingness to talk. Dulat said, “We should always be engaging with Pakistan.” He proposed a breakthrough in relations could come from unexpected gestures, such as Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visiting India for Diwali.

He also highlighted the significance of mainstreaming Kashmir, citing the decline of the Pakistani factor in Kashmiri minds since 9/11.

The election results have brought hope for a new era in Jammu and Kashmir politics, with Abdullah’s victory seen as a significant step towards stability and development in the region. Dulat also added that the results demonstrate the Kashmiri people’s desire for mainstream politics and their rejection of extremist ideologies.