Don’t divide this country on basis of religion: NC’s Farooq Abdullah to PM Modi

National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly attempting to divide the country along religious lines. He emphasized that Muslims should not infringe on anyone’s rights and urged for unity instead of division. Abdullah spoke at an election rally in Thanamandi, Rajouri district, in support of party candidate Mian Altaf for the Anantnag parliamentary constituency elections on May 25, where Altaf faces competition from PDP president Mehbooba Mufti and 18 other candidates.

Abdullah condemned Modi’s remarks about the Congress redistributing property if elected, highlighting the importance of respecting all religions. He accused the prime minister of sowing discord between Hindus and Muslims. Abdullah recounted a story of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s compassionate gesture towards a poor Hindu woman in Pulwama, showcasing religious harmony.

The NC leader asserted that those opposing the INDIA bloc alliance were against the country’s unity and aligned with divisive forces. He warned voters supporting such factions to be prepared for consequences. Abdullah praised the inclusivity of India’s Constitution, which values equality among Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Christians. He underscored the sacrifices made by people of all faiths for India’s independence.

Abdullah emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir residents chose Mahatma Gandhi’s India over Pakistan in 1947 due to India’s constitutional principles of religious equality. He contrasted this with the alleged actions of the ‘Sangh’ organization, which he claimed catered to British rulers instead of serving the nation. Abdullah’s message centered on preserving national unity and upholding the secular fabric of India against divisive tendencies propagated by certain political factions.