Omar Abdullah Sparks Controversy with Remarks on J&K Situation and CRPF Protection for Mirwaiz

The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, has come under intense scrutiny from Opposition leaders following his comments during a recent press conference. Abdullah stated that the circumstances in the valley have undergone a ‘transformation’ since the abrogation of Article 370 by the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019. He further asserted that separatist activities have diminished in the region since that time. During the interview, Abdullah was quoted asking, “Could anyone have imagined that Mirwaiz Umar Farooq (a separatist leader) would be granted CRPF protection? I certainly could not.” In response, the Opposition in J&K attempted to connect the National Conference leader’s statements to his electoral promises made during the 2024 elections, accusing him of a reversal.

On February 21, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq’s security detail was enhanced following an assessment that revealed an uptick in the threat level after his visit to New Delhi.

During his visit to Delhi, Farooq submitted a memorandum to the joint parliamentary committee concerning the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and engaged with a group representing Kashmiri Pandits.

According to reports, CRPF personnel trained in close protection were assigned to him.

Abdullah, with a hint of irony, remarked that the situation in J&K has ‘changed’ post the abrogation of Article 370, which conferred ‘Special status’ to the region. He attributed this new dynamic to the decrease in separatist activities in J&K. He pointed out that the Central Government providing CRPF cover to the Hurriyat Chairman was previously unthinkable, but now represents the ‘changed’ reality.

Responses from the Opposition to CM Omar Abdullah

PDP MLA from Pulwama, Waheed Para, expressed his apprehensions on X, asserting, “If Kashmir appears tranquil today, it is the result of laws like UAPA and PSA, the actions of the NIA, the confiscation of properties, incessant profiling, confinement of detainees under severe regulations, and the termination of employees under Article 311.” He added, “This signifies a dramatic U-turn from your (Omar Abdullah’s) election campaign and manifesto. Your current stance is merely a validation of the coercive tactics employed against Kashmiris.”

Para contended that the present decline in separatist activities is due to stringent measures imposed on separatist groups and the prohibitions placed on the Hurriyat Conference and Jamaat-e-Islami.

He highlighted that the increase in security for the Mirwaiz is not just for his safety but underscores the heightened threats he faces, stating, “Targeting the Mirwaiz uniquely elevates his danger, considering his family’s past sacrifices. The fact is that numerous graves, shrines, and mosques are safeguarded by JKP and CRPF. So why emphasize the Mirwaiz?”

Sajad Lone, president of the People’s Conference, pointed out that Abdullah’s body language conflicted with his verbal statements.

“He appeared with a stern expression, seemingly trying to negate what he was proclaiming. I am not surprised by his reluctant endorsement of the abrogation of Article 370.”

“This is merely a preview for those who supported him. The main feature is yet to unfold. Brace yourself for much more,” Lone, whose party is viewed as an ally of the BJP, posted on X.

While the NC refrained from making an official statement on the opposition’s claims, a high-ranking party member suggested that segments of Abdullah’s interview had been misinterpreted to stir unnecessary controversy.

“Opposition leaders have begun searching for issues where none exist,” the party official remarked.

Statistical Overview of Terrorist Activity in J&K since 2019

2019

Terrorist Incidents: 594 (Source: Ministry of Home Affairs)

Militant Fatalities: 157 (Source: Jammu and Kashmir Police)

Civilian Fatalities: 41 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

Security Personnel Fatalities: 78 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

2020

Terrorist Incidents: 244 (Source: Ministry of Home Affairs)

Militant Fatalities: 225 (Source: Jammu and Kashmir Police)

Civilian Fatalities: 37 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

Security Personnel Fatalities: 62 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

2021

Terrorist Incidents: 228 (Source: Ministry of Home Affairs)

Militant Fatalities: 182 (Source: Jammu and Kashmir Police)

Civilian Fatalities: 41 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

Security Personnel Fatalities: 42 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

2022

Terrorist Incidents: 123 (Source: Ministry of Home Affairs)

Militant Fatalities: 180 (Source: Jammu and Kashmir Police)

Civilian Fatalities: 30 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

Security Personnel Fatalities: 29 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

2023

Terrorist Incidents: Approximately 70 (Source: Preliminary reports)

Militant Fatalities: Over 120 (Source: Jammu and Kashmir Police)

Civilian Fatalities: Around 20 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

Security Personnel Fatalities: Approximately 20 (Source: South Asia Terrorism Portal)

2024

Data: Not fully available as of the current date. Statistics for 2024 will be compiled and released by relevant authorities later in the year.

Note: The statistics for 2023 and 2024 are preliminary and may be subject to change as further detailed reports emerge.