SOPORE (J&K), Mar 28: National Conference (NC) vice president Omar Abdullah leveled accusations against BJP leader Gen (retd) V K Singh, alleging his interference in the revocation of AFSPA during the UPA-2 government when he served as the Army chief.
Addressing party workers in Baramulla district, north Kashmir, Abdullah criticized the Union home minister’s recent focus on AFSPA, highlighting his longstanding advocacy for its revocation since 2011 when he was the chief minister. Abdullah attributed opposition to the move to Gen V K Singh, who, during his tenure as Army chief, reportedly obstructed the process, claiming that the Army would not accept it.
Abdullah urged the Union home minister to prioritize easing public movement on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway before considering AFSPA revocation. He emphasized the need to address issues such as army checkpoints causing disruptions and harassment to civilians during convoy movements.
Furthermore, Abdullah called for the release of prisoners from J-K detained in jails across the country, particularly highlighting the plight of youth from the region. He criticized recent public notices published in newspapers, alleging coercion of separatist families to declare allegiance to the country’s sovereignty.
Expressing skepticism about the government’s commitment to AFSPA revocation, Abdullah warned against potential political manipulation, citing concerns similar to those faced by Ladakh residents regarding the Sixth Schedule. He suggested that once parliamentary polls conclude and BJP loses seats, the issue of AFSPA may be sidelined.
Later, addressing reporters, Abdullah expressed regret over the delayed attention to AFSPA by the Union home minister, expressing apprehensions about the government’s sincerity in addressing the issue.
