'Pakistan Protecting Kashmiris': Farooq Abdullah Sparks Treason Row
National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah claims Pakistan is protecting Kashmiris, sparking outrage and treason allegations from BJP leaders.
In a statement that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah has claimed that Pakistan is "protecting" the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at a workers' convention in Baramulla, Abdullah alleged that Pakistan's persistence in raising the Kashmir issue at international forums has served as a necessary pressure point against the Indian government.
Abdullah Questions Delhi's Intentions
The veteran leader did not mince words when questioning the relationship between the region and the central government. Abdullah expressed deep skepticism about whether the people of Kashmir could expect justice from Delhi, asserting that the Centre's intentions toward the region were not benevolent.
"What can you expect from Delhi? You must have the courage to stand up to them and fight," Abdullah told the gathering. He warned that failure to resist would lead to a loss of identity, stating, "If you do not, you will be wiped out. Your name and identity will disappear, and no one will even remember you."
Regarding the role of Pakistan, Abdullah argued that the neighbor's constant international lobbying is a shield for the local population. He claimed that because Pakistan continues to insist that the Kashmir issue remains unresolved, it is effectively protecting the people, contrasting this with the actions of the Indian government, which he claimed says one thing but does another.
He concluded his address by urging the people to stand by the truth, warning that their future would remain insecure unless they found the courage to speak out and remain firm.
BJP Hits Back: "An Act of Treason"
The remarks triggered an immediate and fierce backlash from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with leaders accusing the National Conference chief of echoing the narrative of a hostile neighbor and committing an act of treason.
Accusations of Exploitation
Uttar Pradesh Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna slammed Abdullah, accusing him of spending his entire political career exploiting the people of the region. Khanna argued that it was Abdullah's leadership that had previously reduced Kashmiris to "second-class citizens."
Khanna maintained that the integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the national mainstream under the Modi government is the only path to prosperity. "Today, the people of Kashmir are at their happiest, thanks to the Modi government," he asserted, emphasizing that every citizen in the region now enjoys the same rights as those in the rest of India.
Claims of Anti-National Conduct
BJP leader Ravinder Raina described the statements as "highly condemnable and unfortunate," going as far as to label them as treason. Raina countered Abdullah's "protection" claim by reminding the public of Pakistan's history of instability in the region.
"Pakistan is the killer of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Over the last 35 years, Pakistan has sought to turn Jammu and Kashmir into a graveyard and a cremation ground," Raina stated.
Raina further alleged that Pakistan has spent decades fostering terrorism by providing training, bombs, guns, and ammunition to militants, questioning how such a state could ever be considered a well-wisher of the Kashmiri people.
Demands for Legal Action
The outrage extended to other BJP leaders and allies. Altaf Thakur termed the speech an "open rebellion" against the country and an attack on India's unity and integrity. He demanded that strict action be taken against the National Conference chief, claiming the party has always maintained an anti-country stance.
Similarly, Janata Dal (United) state president G M Shaheen criticized Abdullah, questioning why the leader continues to echo Pakistan's narrative despite his long tenure in power.