National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah has ignited a fresh controversy with his recent remarks on counter-terrorism measures in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on Saturday, Abdullah urged that terrorists should be captured rather than killed, asserting that this approach could expose the “masterminds” orchestrating the latest spate of violent attacks in the region. His statements come amidst rising concerns about the safety and stability of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly after the recent terror incident in Budgam.
Addressing the Budgam attack, Abdullah called for an in-depth investigation, suggesting that those responsible for the attack may be attempting to “destabilize the government” in Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed suspicions that internal factors, potentially connected to agencies or individuals aiming to unsettle the political landscape, could be at play. “It should be investigated. How is it that the government has come and this is happening?” Abdullah questioned, adding, “I have a doubt that is it done by the people who were trying to destabilize the government… If they (terrorists) are caught, then we will get to know who is doing this. They should not be killed; they should be caught and asked who is behind them,” Abdullah stated, as reported by ANI.
When questioned about the involvement of Pakistan in the attacks, Abdullah refrained from directly attributing blame. “There is no question of this,” he remarked, maintaining his stance for a thorough investigation over immediate accusations.
Abdullah’s remarks have sparked a wave of reactions from political leaders. NCP supremo Sharad Pawar extended his support, highlighting Abdullah’s decades-long dedication to Jammu and Kashmir. “Farooq Abdullah is the tallest personality of Jammu and Kashmir… He has spent his life serving the people of Jammu and Kashmir. I have no doubt about his integrity and honesty. If such a leader is making any statement, then the central government, especially the Home Ministry, should take it seriously and try to work out how the situation can be resolved,” Pawar said in Baramati, Maharashtra.
On the other hand, the BJP’s Jammu and Kashmir unit expressed stark opposition to Abdullah’s comments. Former Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta condemned the Budgam attack as a “cowardly act” orchestrated during a festive period, hinting at external influences. Gupta criticized those whom he described as “working as per the instructions of Pakistan,” and called for stricter measures to identify “Over Ground Workers and Underground Workers” believed to be collaborating with terrorists.
As debate continues over Abdullah’s call for a capture-first approach to counter-terrorism, his statements have not only raised questions about security policies in Jammu and Kashmir but have also prompted discussions on the role of external forces and the possibility of internal destabilization attempts.