Pakistan Claims to be Kashmiris’ Protector! Former Chief Minister’s Remark Sparks India Uproar

Former Chief Minister of Occupied Jammu & Kashmir and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah has sparked a major political storm in Indian politics with his explosive remark claiming that the people of Kashmir are alive today only because of Pakistan. Addressing a public rally, Mr. Abdullah claimed that the Indian government’s stance toward Kashmiris is not favourable, and that the people of the valley are surviving to some extent only due to international pressure and that of the neighbouring nation. Following his statement, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a fiery attack against him, labelling the veteran leader anti-national.

Speaking at a rally in Baramulla, the National Conference chief said, ‘Today, our neighbours are travelling to various international platforms and raising the voice of Kashmir. It is because of this that the residents of Jammu and Kashmir are still alive; otherwise, the mindset of the Indian government toward Kashmiris is not good at all.’ Furthermore, asserting that Kashmiris have not received justice from Delhi, he urged them to gather the courage to stand up and fight for their rights.

Strongly criticising Mr. Abdullah’s remarks, senior BJP leader Ravinder Raina said, ‘Farooq Sahib would realise how much Pakistan actually cares about Kashmiris if he saw the deplorable plight of those living across the Line of Control (LoC). Ever since the abrogation of Article 370, Kashmir has integrated into India’s mainstream and is progressing on the path of development, a reality that certain leaders simply cannot digest.’ According to political analysts, such comments from a veteran and experienced politician not only undermine the country’s internal security but also hand political ammunition to hostile neighbouring nations.