Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 17: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA from Pulwama, Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, today alleged that while the PDP had an open alliance with the BJP, the National Conference (NC) maintained covert ties with the party, particularly around the events of August 5, 2019.
Speaking at a party convention in Srinagar, Para said, “Yes, we had an alliance with the BJP and faced public anger for it. But the National Conference, without any formal alliance, maintained a backdoor relationship with the BJP.”
Referring to recent remarks by former RAW chief A.S. Dullat, Para said that the Dulat is a close friend of Farooq Abdullah, just like a family member. “Dulat, who is projected as a Kashmir expert, is part of Farooq Abdullah’s inner circle. When he visits the Valley, he goes straight to their residence. He recently said that Dr Farooq Abdullah was ready to align with the BJP on August 5.”
Para also criticised NC vice president Omar Abdullah, claiming he avoided an important session of the Assembly. “We tried to table a resolution on the Waqf Bill, as directed by Mehbooba Mufti, but Omar Abdullah was busy with events at the Tulip Garden and did not attend.”
Comparing Omar Abdullah’s administration with the current rule under the Lieutenant Governor, Para said, “What is the difference? Properties were being attached then, and the same is happening now.”
He urged Kashmiris to raise their voices for the wider Muslim community in India. “India is the second-largest Muslim country. There are issues concerning our masjids and shrines-be it Nizamuddin or Jamia Masjid. The Muslim community across the country is looking to Kashmir for support,” he said.
Para emphasized that religious interference was unacceptable. “I do not interfere in temples or Hindu practices. Why should anyone interfere in mine?”
He concluded by saying the purpose of the gathering was to send a strong message about protecting religious sites. “We are here to speak for our masjids and shrines and to affirm our responsibility toward the Muslim community in India,” he said.
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