SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of practising religion-based politics, alleging that the party’s absence of Muslim representation exposes its exclusivist approach to governance.
Speaking to reporters after the Assembly session, Omar Abdullah said the BJP governs “on religious lines” and that its political conduct reflects a narrow vision of representation. “There isn’t a single Muslim MP or minister in their ranks; that fact alone speaks volumes about their idea of representation,” he said.
Drawing a sharp contrast, the Chief Minister emphasised that his government’s relief and administrative policies in Jammu and Kashmir are grounded in fairness and objective assessment of damage, not faith or region. “Our relief policies are based on the extent of damage, not on religion or region. We have maintained fairness in every case, and our record stands on that principle,” he added.
Omar Abdullah further criticised the recent delimitation process in Jammu and Kashmir, alleging that it was engineered to favour a particular political party. “The Election Commission must act independently and not allow itself to be influenced by any political force. Credibility of democracy depends on its neutrality,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that dividing citizens along religious lines undermines India’s democratic foundation. He urged all political parties to protect the secular ethos of governance and public life.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to equality, Omar Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir’s strength lies in its diversity and that his administration will continue to serve all citizens without discrimination.
