New Delhi, April 30, 2025 — National Conference president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday firmly rejected ally Congress’ criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, extending full support to the Centre and the Prime Minister on any retaliatory action against Pakistan.
Responding to Congress’ now-deleted social media post that implied the Prime Minister was “missing” following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Abdullah said there was no question of the Prime Minister being absent.
“Where is he missing? I know he is in Delhi,” Abdullah said bluntly, countering the Congress post that used a photo of the Prime Minister’s clothing without his image, captioned “jimmedari ke samay — Gayab” (missing during responsibility).
The post, which triggered backlash from the BJP, was swiftly deleted after it drew sharp criticism. The ruling party accused Congress of using imagery that mirrored radical slogans like “sar tan se juda” (beheading), alleging that such visuals were irresponsible during a time when national security was at stake.
Abdullah distanced his party from the Congress’ stance and reiterated his trust in the Prime Minister's leadership. “We have given our full support to the prime minister. After that, we should not be questioned. The prime minister should do whatever work he [finds] necessary,” he stated.
“We Have It Too”: Abdullah Warns Pakistan Over Nuclear Threats
Addressing Pakistan’s repeated warnings of a potential nuclear escalation, Abdullah issued a pointed reminder that India too is a nuclear-armed nation and has historically demonstrated restraint.
“We also have nuclear power, and we had it even before them. India has never attacked anyone first. It all started from there (Pakistan), and we responded. Even today, we will not use it (nuclear weapons) unless they do. But if they use it, we have it too. May God never let such a situation arise,” Abdullah said, warning Islamabad against reckless threats.
Citing Pakistan’s track record of sponsoring cross-border terrorism, Abdullah recalled a string of past attacks: “There was the Mumbai attack, and it was proven they did it. The Pathankot attack, they did it, the Uri attack, they did it. They attacked in Kargil, and I was the chief minister at that time. They said they were not involved, but when we took strong action, they ran to the US President asking for help.”
Abdullah concluded his statement with a strong message to Pakistan: “If they want friendship, then such things cannot continue. It must stop. But if they want hostility, we are ready, and so are they.”
The remarks come as India continues to weigh its response to the deadly Pahalgam attack that left 26 tourists dead. Prime Minister Modi has already convened a series of high-level security meetings, with the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs and the National Investigation Agency now actively engaged in strategic planning and investigation.
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