New Delhi: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah faced criticism from Muslim clerics on Sunday following remarks about Pakistan and Kashmir that triggered a political controversy.
Abdullah's comments, made at a rally in Baramulla district on Saturday, drew objections from several clerics and BJP leaders. His remarks were interpreted by critics as giving undue credit to Pakistan for its role in raising issues concerning Kashmir internationally.
Maulana Sajid Rashidi, president of the All India Imam Association (AIIA), strongly criticised Abdullah's statement and alleged that it amounted to treason.
Speaking to IANS, Rashidi accused Pakistan of supporting terrorism in India and referred to previous attacks, including the Pulwama and Pahalgam attacks, as well as the Kargil conflict.
Abdullah had reportedly questioned the Centre's approach towards Kashmir and suggested that Pakistan's diplomatic efforts had helped bring the region's concerns to international attention. He also expressed concern about the Centre's intentions towards the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Other clerics seek clarification
The remarks also drew criticism from Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali and Maulana Saif Abbas.
Both clerics expressed displeasure over the suggestion that Pakistan had played a role in protecting or representing the interests of Jammu and Kashmir. They argued that relying on another country for the region's security was inappropriate.
Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali called on Abdullah to explain his remarks and apologise, describing the comments as objectionable.
BJP leaders demand apology
Abdullah's statement had already triggered a political row, with several Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders criticising the National Conference president and demanding an apology.
The controversy has drawn attention to differing political views on Pakistan's role, Kashmir's security and the handling of issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
The criticism from the clerics reflects their objections to Abdullah's reported remarks, while the political dispute continues to centre on the interpretation and implications of his comments.
