Every J&K citizen not terrorist: CM Omar
Jammu, Nov 13: Vehemently condemning the terror act in Delhi, claiming many innocent lives, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday cautioned that it would “not be just to see every Kashmiri Muslim with suspicion as every J&K citizen was not a terrorist.”
It would make the situation difficult to handle, he said.
CM Omar was responding to media queries about the Delhi blast, after addressing the 19th convocation of the University of Jammu here.
“The very first day, I condemned that heinous act (Delhi blast). No amount of condemnation will be enough for this reprehensible act. No religion permits the killing of innocent people in such an atrocious manner, and no issue, whatever it may be, can justify this brutal act. The investigation is underway. But in the process, we will have to keep one thing in mind,” he said.
“Every J&K citizen is not a terrorist. Not every J&K citizen is with them and does not support terrorists. There are a few people who have always made attempts to vitiate an atmosphere of peace and communal harmony,” the CM said.
He pointed out that to look at every citizen of J&K through the same lens would turn the situation worrisome.
“Investigation will continue. But unfortunately, when we see every J&K citizen and in particular, every Kashmiri Muslim, with an eye of suspicion and give an impression that every Kashmiri Muslim is a terrorist, then it becomes very difficult to keep people on the right track. It becomes difficult to let them not go astray,” CM Omar said.
The CM reiterated he was of the firm belief that the perpetrators of the heinous act should be caught and should be given the strictest punishment.
“But the innocent people should be kept out of it and should not be made to pay for it, in any manner,” he said.
With regard to a question about the arrest of a doctor from SMHS Hospital, who was dismissed from service by the LG in 2023, CM Omar said, “What is a new thing about it? Had you not seen a university professor involved in such acts earlier? I still remember there was an associate professor, probably from the University of Kashmir. He was also involved. Where is it written that educated people don’t get involved in such acts? They do.”
He also posed a query while answering this question.
“In fact, I’m amazed by the fact that he (doctor) was dismissed from service for his involvement in such acts. But after that, what investigation took place? He was terminated, but what action was taken against him? If you had evidence of his involvement in terrorist activities, why did you not go to court with evidence? Why didn’t prosecution happen? Termination had not ended the matter. And now the result is before you,” the CM said.
He said that only such persons responsible for reprehensible acts should be punished, and the innocent people should not be caught in the vortex.
How did such a huge cache of explosives reach the perpetrators?
CM Omar’s response to this question was, “Ask these questions to the people who are responsible for security. This is not our responsibility. We can only assist the government in normalising the situation and maintaining peace. And we are doing it.”
Earlier in his convocation address, he said that J&K was at the threshold of transformation in the education sector, where universities would play a pivotal role in shaping innovators, entrepreneurs, and responsible citizens.
“Our government has undertaken a series of transformative reforms to enhance access, quality, and relevance in higher education across Jammu and Kashmir – reforms that directly benefit institutions such as the University of Jammu and, most importantly, its students,” the CM said.
Congratulating the graduating students, medal winners, and PhD awardees, he described the convocation as a “moment of pride, celebration and reflection” for the institution and everyone associated with it.
“To the parents, guardians, and families – your support, sacrifices, and faith have been essential in reaching this proud moment. This achievement belongs to you as much as to your children,” CM Omar said, acknowledging the pivotal role of families and educators in shaping future generations.
“The University of Jammu has grown from strength to strength and today stands as a beacon of learning with 11 off-site campuses, 40 academic departments and over 160 affiliated colleges, serving the educational aspirations of students across Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Highlighting the university’s achievements, the CM commended its NAAC A++ accreditation with a CGPA of 3.72, considered as highly ranked in the country, and noted its consistent presence among the top 100 universities in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), securing the 51st position in the university category this year.
He also appreciated the university’s steady rise in the State Public Universities category – from 23rd in 2024 to 21st in 2025 - reflecting its growing stature as a centre of academic and research.
“The university’s focus on employability through job fairs and global placement drives, including partnerships with International organisations, reflects a forward-looking approach that ensures education here translates into meaningful career opportunities,” CM Omar said.
Commending Vice Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai and his team for their relentless commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic student development, he said, “The university’s progress embodies the transformative vision of higher education his government seeks to strengthen across J&K.”
The CM also highlighted Mission Yuva, his government’s flagship initiative designed to harness the creativity, potential, and energy of the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Mission Yuva aims to provide young people with a structured platform for capacity building, career guidance, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. By integrating education with skill development, innovation, and mental well-being, it seeks to prepare our youth not only for employment but for leadership and nation-building,” he said.
CM Omar emphasised that the synergy between Mission Yuva and the higher education ecosystem was already visible through mentorship programmes, startup incubation, cultural and literary engagement, and outreach initiatives involving universities like the University of Jammu.
“Together, these efforts ensure that our young citizens are not only educated but empowered to contribute meaningfully to a progressive, inclusive, and self-reliant J&K,” he said.
“As we march ahead, let us ensure that the light of knowledge reaches every corner – from the campuses of Kathua and Bhaderwah to the remotest hamlets of Poonch and Kishtwar - for education remains our most powerful tool for equity and empowerment,” the CM said.
Encouraging the degree and medal recipients to carry forward the values instilled by their alma mater, he said, “The university has invested in you. Now it is time for you to invest in the world around you. Remember, success is not measured by what you achieve for yourself but by what you contribute to society.”
CM Omar also reminded the young graduates that while the convocation marked the culmination of years of rigorous study and personal growth, it also signalled the beginning of a new journey filled with purpose, challenges, and opportunities.
“The education you have received here has given you more than degrees and knowledge – it has equipped you with critical thinking, problem-solving, ethical judgment, and lifelong learning. Wherever your journey takes you, be worthy ambassadors of the University of Jammu,” he said.
The CM asked the youth to dream big, think boldly, and serve selflessly.
“The nation looks to your generation to build a future marked by progress, harmony, and inclusivity. My challenge to you is to be an agent of positive change in your families, your professions, and your communities,” he said.
LG Manoj Sinha was the chief guest on the occasion.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Members of Parliament Ghulam Ali Khatana and Sat Paul Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Vice Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai, and University Council member Prof A K Kaul were also present on the occasion.
