'Betrayal of Victims': VHRP and Shiv Sena Slam Farooq Abdullah's Pakistan Remarks
VHRP Mahila President and Shiv Sena leaders condemn Farooq Abdullah for calling Pakistan a protector of Kashmiris, calling it a betrayal of victims.
The political atmosphere has ignited following controversial statements made by National Conference Chief Farooq Abdullah, who claimed that Pakistan has been "protecting" the people of Jammu and Kashmir. These remarks have drawn fierce condemnation from various quarters, with leaders accusing him of insulting the victims of terrorism and undermining India's national security.
VHRP Slams 'Betrayal' of Terrorism Victims
Yamuna Pathak, the National Mahila President of the Visva Hindu Raksha Parishad (VHRP), launched a scathing attack on Abdullah, describing his stance as a betrayal of those who suffered under the shadow of terror. Speaking to ANI, Pathak questioned the moral authority of the NC chief to portray a nation known for fostering terrorism as a savior.
"Farooq Abdullah, how dare you stand in Bharat and portray Pakistan as a protector of Kashmiris? What answer do you have for grieving families, murdered civilians, and displaced Kashmiri Pandits?" Pathak questioned.
Pathak further argued that for decades, Pakistan has attempted to turn Jammu and Kashmir into a "graveyard" through the promotion of terrorism. She criticized Abdullah for planting seeds of fear and suspicion among the youth regarding their identity, suggesting that leaders should instead focus on providing paths toward education, employment, and justice.
Shiv Sena Demands Immediate Apology
Adding to the criticism, Shiv Sena leader Sinkaru Shivaji expressed shock that a former Chief Minister of an Indian state would make such statements. Shivaji pointed out that the global community recognizes Pakistan as a hub for terrorism and highlighted the continuous attacks on Indian soldiers.
"Pakistan repeatedly attacks our nation and our soldiers... and you claim Pakistan is protecting it?" Shivaji remarked, asserting that neither the people of Kashmir nor the citizens of India would accept such a narrative. He demanded that Farooq Abdullah issue an immediate apology for his comments.
The Spark: What Farooq Abdullah Said
The controversy stems from a workers' convention held on Saturday, where Farooq Abdullah alleged that the Central government's intentions toward the region were not benevolent. He claimed that Pakistan's efforts to keep the Kashmir issue alive at international forums were putting necessary pressure on India.
Abdullah warned his supporters that they must have the courage to fight against Delhi, claiming that without such resistance, their "name and identity will disappear." He explicitly stated that the neighboring country is "protecting" them by constantly reminding the world that the Kashmir issue remains unresolved.
CPI(M) Points Finger at Central Government
While the right-wing leadership condemned Abdullah, the CPI(M) offered a different perspective. General Secretary MA Baby attributed the current unrest and political friction in Jammu and Kashmir to the "utterly negative and undemocratic attitude" of the Narendra Modi government.
Baby highlighted the abrogation of Article 370 and the removal of the region's special status as the primary drivers of the current discontent. He noted that the failure to restore statehood and the division of the region into two Union Territories have fueled demands for the restoration of what was lost.