Jammu Mar 27 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to leverage India’s diplomatic influence to help end the ongoing conflict in West Asia, describing it as a grave humanitarian crisis with direct implications for India.
Speaking during the Budget Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdullah highlighted the escalating war in the region and its widespread human impact, particularly in Iran. He noted that while global discussions revolve around strategic concerns like oil supply routes and geopolitical shifts, the suffering of ordinary people continues largely unaddressed.
The Chief Minister said the crisis is affecting India directly, pointing out that several Indian nationals, including residents of Jammu and Kashmir, are stranded in Iran. He also cited domestic repercussions such as long queues at fuel stations and growing public anxiety.
“As representatives of the people, we have every right to raise our concerns,” Abdullah said, adding that although the Assembly cannot halt the war, India’s strong international ties position it to play a constructive role in de-escalation.
Referring to India’s relations with countries including the United States, Israel, and Iran, he expressed confidence that the Centre could use diplomatic channels effectively to push for peace.
Abdullah condemned what he termed an “unjust and illegal war imposed on Iran” and expressed condolences over the loss of lives, including that of Ali Khamenei and his associates.
Reiterating his appeal, he urged the Government of India to take urgent steps to help end the conflict, stating that an early resolution would benefit humanity at large.
“It is not any one religion that is being killed — it is humanity that is being killed,” he said, framing the crisis as a humanitarian issue rather than a religious one.
He concluded by expressing hope that the entire Assembly would support efforts aimed at restoring peace in the region.(NVI)
