Jammu, March 12, KNT: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday said he did not know the man who allegedly fired two shots during a wedding function in Jammu, describing the incident as a security lapse and expressing concern over the prevailing atmosphere of hatred in the country.
The remarks came after a pistol-borne individual fired a shot at Abdullah during a wedding function in Jammu attended by several political figures, triggering panic before the accused was overpowered and taken into custody.
Abdullah said he initially mistook the gunshots for firecrackers as he was leaving the venue.
“I was walking out of the venue when I heard the sound of what I thought was a firecracker. Immediately I was rushed into a car. Later I was told that there was a man with a pistol who had fired two shots,” he told reporters.
The veteran leader said he had no knowledge of the accused or the motive behind the incident.
“I do not know this man and I have no information about him. I have always kept my doors open for everyone and tried to help people irrespective of party affiliation,” he said.
Abdullah said Union Home Minister Amit Shah called him after the incident and informed him that the accused had been arrested and that a full inquiry would be conducted.
“He told me that the person has been arrested and assured that there will be a full inquiry into the incident,” Abdullah said.
Terming the episode a security lapse, Abdullah said proper arrangements should have been in place since several prominent figures were attending the wedding function.
“Big political leaders were present there and the police should have ensured adequate security. Police presence should have been there,” he said.
Abdullah also expressed concern over what he described as a growing atmosphere of intolerance.
“We are living in an environment of hate. Hatred is the biggest tragedy in our nation today and those who speak about love and unity are finding their space shrinking,” he said.
He said democratic societies must allow room for differing opinions and respect diverse viewpoints.
“We are living in India. We may have different ideologies but we must respect each other’s suggestions and allow freedom of expression,” he said.
Referring to the political situation in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah reiterated the demand for restoration of statehood, saying the elected government in the Union Territory does not enjoy full powers.
“There is an elected government but it does not have full powers. Statehood must be restored,” he said.
Abdullah as per the news agency Kashmir News Trust also warned that escalation of conflict in the Middle East could affect ordinary people economically.
“If the war continues in the Middle East, both the poor and the middle class will suffer due to rising prices,” he said.
He urged the Centre to use its diplomatic influence to promote peace.
“I request the government to use its international relations to help stop the war,” Abdullah said.
Abdullah also thanked his security personnel for ensuring his safety during the incident.
“I have no words to thank my security personnel who protected me,” he said.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the firing incident that briefly disrupted the wedding function.
[KNT]
