Srinagar, Oct 30 (KNS): Former Deputy Mayor Srinagar Sheikh Imran criticised Omar Abdullah's "Praise" of Sardar Patel, what he described as a “historic betrayal” of the National Conference’s (NC) ideological stance on Jammu and Kashmir’s integration with India.
In a post on X, Sheikh Imran said : Sardar Patel’s vision of “unity and integration” viz-a-viz J&K was based on two pivots:
Initial assertion that J&K should go to Pakistan in consideration for Hyderabad, Junagadh, etc. Rejection of J&K’s autonomous arrangement.It was contrary to the Nehruvian view for J&K — which supported Sheikh Abdullah and advocated for an accession option as opposed to a merger option advocated by thrice by Sardar Patel."
According to KNS, he added: It was this “unity” and “integration” of erstwhile Princely States that has become the bedrock or BJP’s jingoistic, anti-federalism form of political posturing and narrative. It is THIS vision that formed the basis of what happened on August 5, 2019 — precisely why the BJP paid homage to Sardar Patel and his efforts of “integration” on the day J&K was stripped of its special status and statehood."
"And TODAY, lo and behold —- Mr.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel@OmarAbdullah stands on a stage — in all his newfound excitement as a newly minted UT Chief Minister — and reads out an oath eulogizing Sardar Patel and stating that the “integration” of India “would not have been possible” without Patel," his post reads.
"The founders of National Conference must be turning in their graves today. NC has gone from repeatedly telling us the difference between “Gandhi’s India” and “Modi’s India” to now celebrating Patel’s India," he also said.
The NC Srinagar MP @RuhullahMehdi should be asked if the proverbial axe is now wielded by none other than @OmarAbdullah himself and if he can focus on this historic betrayal by his masters rather than house-hunting in New Delhi, he added.
"NC has now gone from its Nehruvian/Gandhian pivot to Mukerjee/Patel view on J&K and that too openly. Who would have thought such a day would arise? Kudos to NC for being true to its character — as a scorpion — stinging the back that carries it in a storm. Another tragic lesson for the people of Kashmir," he added. (KNS)