Farooq Abdullah's Controversial Remarks on Kashmir Spark Outrage from BJP

Farooq Abdullah's Statements on Kashmir Draw Criticism

Srinagar: Farooq Abdullah, the president of the National Conference (NC), claimed on Saturday that Pakistan has played a crucial role in keeping the Kashmir issue alive on international platforms. His comments have ignited a backlash from the BJP, which labeled his remarks as 'seditious and anti-national.'

During a party gathering in Baramulla district, Abdullah expressed skepticism about the Centre's intentions towards Kashmiris, questioning, 'What hope do you have from them (Delhi)? Do you expect justice?'

He encouraged the people of Kashmir to stand firm against Delhi, warning that without resilience, their identity could vanish. 'If you don’t maintain your stance, you will be erased. Our existence is at stake,' he stated, emphasizing that the global attention on Kashmir is currently a protective factor.

Abdullah further alleged that Muslims are facing oppression in states governed by the BJP, pointing to the destruction of mosques and homes. 'Do you see how their mosques are being razed? Their homes are being bulldozed!' he exclaimed.

He reiterated that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have never denied their Indian identity, stating, 'We have always affirmed our allegiance to India – to the India of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.'

Abdullah lamented the current state of communal tensions, suggesting that the political landscape has pitted Muslims against Hindus for power. 'We never imagined this would happen, but this too shall pass, God willing,' he added.

In response, BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur called for legal action against Abdullah, asserting that his pro-Pakistan comments are treasonous. 'A leader who has sworn to uphold the Indian Constitution cannot question the nation’s commitment to its citizens while legitimizing Pakistan’s narrative,' he stated.

Thakur suggested that if Abdullah has such admiration for Pakistan, he should relocate there, emphasizing that the residents of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir yearn for freedom from Pakistani rule and wish to join India.

He criticized Pakistan for its role in perpetuating violence in Jammu and Kashmir, stating, 'Pakistan has brought nothing but terrorism and fear to the region. Does Abdullah expect Kashmiris to overlook this painful history and view Pakistan as their savior?'

Thakur concluded by asserting that the National Conference often neglects the sacrifices made by security forces and civilians in combating terrorism, arguing that Pakistan cannot be seen as a protector of Kashmiris given its history of suffering inflicted upon the region.