Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that peace is a fundamental prerequisite for development in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly for strengthening the tourism and sports sectors. Addressing reporters on Sunday, he emphasized the necessity of a peaceful environment for any sporting events and travel activities to flourish.
“For development, tourism, or sports… we need peace for everything. If we talk about having day and night matches, and if the situation is not good, then who will come to play in the evening?” Abdullah asked, highlighting the integral link between stability and growth.
During the event, Abdullah unveiled the new jersey of the Real Kashmir Football Club, labeling it a symbol of peace. “Peace is the foundation for everything,” he proclaimed, reiterating that the message conveyed through the jersey is one of harmony.
His statements echo sentiments from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who remarked that peace is crucial for development in the region. Sinha also noted that some remnants of terrorism linger in Jammu and Kashmir.
Abdullah expressed that the responsibility for maintaining peace does not rest solely with him. “Those who are responsible should fulfill their responsibility,” he remarked, urging for collective accountability.
He criticized ongoing political scrutiny, asserting that the current government cannot be held accountable for law and order, which falls outside its jurisdiction. “Our government is targeted for everything, even things we cannot control,” he stated, clearly charting a boundary of responsibilities.
When discussing infrastructure, Abdullah confirmed a strong commitment to enhancing sports facilities across Jammu and Kashmir. “There is hardly any assembly segment where some sports infrastructure is not being built by our government,” he stated, outlining a focused strategy to foster youth engagement through sports.
His government aims to create an array of sports venues, encouraging young people to engage fully with the available facilities. “Tournaments, races, etc., are being held at the district and sub-district level,” he noted, promoting upcoming events like the second edition of the Kashmir Marathon slated for November 2.
Abdullah invited athletes across India to participate, particularly in the half-marathon, emphasizing a spirit of camaraderie. “I want to extend an invitation to the athletes from across the country to come to Srinagar,” he said, fostering hope for broad participation.
In response to queries about the recently affected Srinagar-Jammu National Highway due to landslides, Abdullah reported, “We haven’t been able to do black-topping on the 300-meter stretch that was washed away.” However, he assured that no vehicles were stranded and restoration efforts were underway.
Earlier, during the launch of the specially designed “Peace Jersey” for Real Kashmir FC, the CM accentuated the role of sports in promoting peace and community spirit in Jammu and Kashmir. Designed in collaboration with the renowned Danish brand Hummel, the jersey celebrates the region’s cultural unity.
The design reflects the historic Hari Parbat Fort, symbolizing communal harmony among different religions present in the area. Officials highlighted the jersey’s sky-blue base as a representation of peace.
Abdullah remarked, “Real Kashmir FC exemplifies how football can inspire and unite communities.” He emphasized that sports serve as a vital bridge for peace, fostering connections among the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
