Pictures By Zargar Zahoor
Srinagar, Sept 8: National Conference president and member parliament Farooq Abdullah on Wednesday said that the party will fight elections as and when they take place even as it was firm on its demand for restoration of Article 370 and 35A of the Indian constitution and statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a function to commemorate 39th death anniversary of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, Farooq also expressed optimism that Taliban will do justice with all and will run affairs of the country in keeping with tenets of Islam and respect human rights. 
“Sheikh Abdullah devoted entire life for uplifment of this nation and hopefully this party (NC) will continue with the endeavor and continue to do good for people,” he said, adding, “These days, party elections are taking place and I congratulate observers and all others connected with the process. Such exercise keeps the party alive and brings about liveliness in ranks. Also good people come to fore.”
To a question on assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, the former 3-time chief minister categorically announced party’s participation sans any precondition like restoration of the statehood or any other demand.
“I don’t know when elections will take place. See National Conference is not going to remain away from elections. We have to fight elections and Inshallah (god willing) we will surely fight them,” he said.
“As far as statehood and restoration of Article 370 and 35A is concerned, we are resolute and there is crack. Ishallah one day we will successful take it back,” he added.
On Afghanistan, he said, “it is a separate country. Those who have come there have to look after the country.”
He added: “I am hopeful that they will do justice with one and all and run a good country in keeping in view human rights and tenets of Islam. I will add that they should develop friendly ties with all countries.”
