Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has backed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s demand for an FIR over pellet gun injuries and his sit-in protest, saying such actions are part of the Opposition’s responsibility.
Abdullah also criticised Jammu and Kashmir Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma over his recent remark that Islam was imposed by force in Kashmir. He said Sharma should focus on his role as a political leader rather than commenting extensively on religious matters.
Omar Abdullah defends Rahul Gandhi’s protest
Backing Rahul Gandhi’s approach, Abdullah said the Leader of the Opposition is expected to question the government and hold it accountable.
“If the Leader of the Opposition doesn’t play the role of the opposition, then what is the point of the position? I haven’t heard you questioning the Leader of the Opposition in Jammu & Kashmir in the same way. You enjoy it when they do it. But when Rahul Gandhi does it, you ask, ‘Why is Rahul Gandhi doing this?’ It’s a case of double standards,” Abdullah said.
He added that Rahul Gandhi was doing what was expected of the Leader of the Opposition by demanding answers from the government.
“Rahul Gandhi is doing exactly what the nation expects of him. It is the job of the Leader of the Opposition to demand answers from the government and to hold the government accountable. I would want him to continue doing just that, because that is precisely the role of the opposition,” he said.
Omar Abdullah responds to Sunil Sharma’s remarks on Islam
Reacting to Sunil Sharma’s statement that Islam was imposed by force in Kashmir, Abdullah initially took a satirical approach before criticising the remark.
“I would simply say that our government’s performance must be truly excellent if the Leader of the Opposition found nothing to criticize about it and is talking about religion, I would consider that a success,” Abdullah said.
He further urged political leaders to avoid making excessive comments on religious matters.
“I would say that one should not comment excessively on religious matters. What happened at the Babri Masjid—was that not an act of coercion? What Muslims in the rest of the country are facing today—well, the prevailing circumstances are one thing, but one should not play with people’s sentiments,” he said.
Abdullah added that the Leader of the Opposition should leave religious matters to religious leaders and focus his discourse on politics.
Abdullah condoles death of 14-year-old in Kishtwar
Expressing grief over the death of a 14-year-old girl in Kishtwar, Abdullah said the administration needed to strengthen law and order in the district.
“There needs to be robust administration in Kishtwar, particularly regarding law and order. Authorities should act swiftly, complete the entire process expeditiously, and ensure that those found guilty are held accountable,” he said.
CM calls for balanced development
Abdullah also spoke about the growing population and increasing pressure on land, stressing the need to balance development with the conservation of available land.
“Everyone wants to build their own house; everyone wants to progress. Our aim is to strike a balance. We cannot tell people not to build houses, but we do urge them to minimize land usage—because once land is lost, it cannot be reclaimed,” he said.
He added that while resources such as electricity and water could be generated or produced, lost land could not be brought back.
“So, development should happen in a balanced way,” Abdullah said.
