Picture : @CM_JnK/X
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that any normalisation of relations with Pakistan is currently “difficult to imagine”, citing a surge in terror incidents and the lack of a credible civilian partner in Islamabad.
Speaking at the ‘Express Adda’ organised by The Indian Express, Abdullah said that while dialogue is the only way forward, the “conducive environment” required for talks is conspicuously absent. He placed the burden of creating that environment squarely on Pakistan.
Abdullah pointed to recent security breaches, including attacks in Pahalgam and Delhi, as evidence that the ground reality remains hostile and argued that India cannot be expected to ignore such provocations.
“When incidents like Delhi keep happening, it’s difficult to imagine a normalisation of relations,” Abdullah said and specified that Pakistan must take concrete action on several fronts before progress can be made.
He said Pakistan should ensure those responsible for the Mumbai attacks are brought to justice, stopping the orchestration of attacks within Indian territories and preventing non-state actors from sabotaging regional peace.
Beyond the threat of terrorism, Abdullah questioned the utility of diplomatic engagement with Pakistan’s current civilian leadership.
He suggested that real power continues to reside with the Pakistani military, rendering talks with the Prime Minister’s Office largely symbolic.
