Azad Slams Abdullah: 'Absolutely Wrong' to Credit Pakistan in Kashmir
DPAP chief Ghulam Nabi Azad rejects Farooq Abdullah's claims about Pakistan's role in Kashmir, calling the statements absolutely wrong.
The political atmosphere in Jammu and Kashmir has reached a boiling point as Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chief Ghulam Nabi Azad has openly rejected claims made by National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah regarding Pakistan's role in the Kashmir issue. The clash comes after Abdullah suggested that Pakistan had been instrumental in keeping the Kashmir matter alive on the global stage.
The Spark: Abdullah's Baramulla Rally
The controversy began on Saturday, October 24, 2026, during a rally held in Baramulla, North Kashmir. During his address, Farooq Abdullah asserted that Pakistan has played a key role in ensuring the Kashmir issue remains a topic of discussion at international forums. Furthermore, Abdullah expressed doubts about the Central government's true intentions toward the people of Kashmir.
Abdullah's rhetoric did not stop there; he also alleged that Muslims are facing oppression in states governed by the BJP, adding fuel to an already volatile political fire.
Azad's Strong Rebuttal
Responding to these remarks in Srinagar on October 25, 2026, Ghulam Nabi Azad did not mince words. While maintaining a tone of personal respect, he categorically dismissed the NC leader's narrative.
"I respect Farooq Sahab, but this statement is absolutely wrong," Azad told reporters.
Azad argued that the reality is quite the opposite, stating that successive Indian governments have been the true drivers of development and progress in Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed the finger directly at Pakistan, identifying the neighboring country as the primary source of terrorism, instability, and violence in the region since 1947.
Outrage and Political Backlash
Farooq Abdullah's comments have triggered a wave of indignation across the political spectrum:
- BJP and VHP: Both the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Vishva Hindu Parishad have condemned the remarks as "seditious and anti-national," demanding an unconditional apology from the NC president.
- Indian National Congress: The Congress party distanced itself from Abdullah's praise of Pakistan, reaffirming that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. However, the party simultaneously expressed its frustration over the delay in restoring statehood to the region.
The Global Context: India's Stand at the UN
As the internal political storm raged, the Indian government was reinforcing its position on the world stage. On October 25, at the United Nations, India asserted that Jammu and Kashmir is an inalienable part of its territory.
New Delhi issued a stern demand for Pakistan to end its illegal occupation of occupied regions and criticized Islamabad for using international platforms to spread propaganda. The Indian representative urged Pakistan to prioritize the welfare of its own citizens instead of attempting to foster instability within the region.