In a shocking incident on Wednesday night, an assailant attempted to shoot former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah at a wedding party. Security officials quickly overpowered the attacker and arrested him before any casualties occurred. Preliminary interrogation revealed that the man had allegedly been planning the attack for 20 years. Abdullah clarified that he had no prior knowledge of the assailant and no personal grievances against him.
“I was coming out when I heard something like a firecracker. I was immediately put into a car… Later, they told me there was a man with a gun who fired two shots,” Abdullah recounted to reporters, noting that he initially thought the noise was part of wedding fireworks.
Concerns Over Security Arrangements
The former Chief Minister criticised the security setup at the event, highlighting lapses despite the presence of high-profile individuals. “Big names were there but arrangements were not,” he said, urging authorities to strengthen protection measures for dignitaries.
Government Response and Inquiry
Union Home Minister Amit Shah personally contacted Abdullah to check on his safety and assured that an inquiry would be conducted to determine how the attempt occurred and who was behind it.
Abdullah Speaks on Rising Hatred and Unrest
Abdullah expressed deep concern over the growing atmosphere of hatred in the country, stating, “A web of hatred has spread; hatred has taken root in the nation.” He emphasised the importance of democracy, where diverse views coexist, and lamented that even religious teachings promoting love and affection seem increasingly ignored.
Call for Restoration of Statehood
The National Conference leader reiterated the unfinished promise of restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stating that lasting peace cannot be achieved without a fully empowered, elected government. The incident underscores the precarious security environment in the region and the challenges faced by political leaders amid rising tensions.