Kerala's Secularism a Model for the Nation; Farooq Abdullah Praises Kerala at 'Vision 2031' Concluding Session

Thiruvananthapuram: Farooq Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, praised the secular values and harmonious atmosphere upheld by Kerala. He was speaking at the concluding session of the state government's 'Vision 2031' development conference.

He stated that Kerala offers great hope to the nation in the difficult political climate India is currently facing. He mentioned that people are afraid to speak the truth in the country today and that lies are being spread in a manner similar to the era of Hitler.

However, he added that Kerala continues to uphold secularism, and if Gandhiji were alive today, he would be ashamed to see the state of the country. He accused the central government of encroaching upon the powers of the states.

He shared the pain of having his own state of Kashmir converted into a Union Territory. He stated that the people of Kashmir are living in an oppressed situation. He criticised fascist forces who divide people solely for electoral gains.

He emphasised that if pluralism is destroyed, it will be the end of the nation. He expressed firm belief that those who try to undermine democracy will eventually fail, and we will succeed.

While praising Kerala's development vision, he also reminded of the need for secular forces to unite at the national level.