Srinagar, Oct 23: National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah on Friday criticised the Centre over its claims of foreign involvement in protests in Delhi, accusing the Union government of invoking the narrative of an external conspiracy whenever it faces a political crisis.
Speaking to reporters here, the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister challenged the Centre to identify the country allegedly attempting to interfere in India’s internal affairs, questioning the basis of its claims of foreign involvement.
“Whenever the government in Delhi is in danger, they see a foreign hand. They do not see their own. Who is doing it? If they say foreign (hand) is doing it, then name who is doing it. Which country is trying to do this? Tell us,” Abdullah said.
He alleged that the government repeatedly attributed developments to external forces without identifying the country involved.
“They don’t have that name at all. Just (say) foreign hand, foreign hand! A foreign hand in everything,” the NC chief said.
Abdullah’s remarks came amid questions over allegations of foreign involvement in protests in the national capital. He questioned the Centre’s approach, arguing that claims of external interference should be supported by specific details identifying the country allegedly responsible.
The NC president’s comments added to the political debate over the Centre’s response to protests and its assertions about possible external involvement.
Responding to a question about the escalating Middle East crisis, Abdullah called for an immediate end to the war, warning that its consequences were being felt across the world, particularly through economic hardship and inflation.
He criticised US President Donald Trump over the conflict and its wider consequences, saying the continuation of hostilities was contributing to global suffering.
“This is Trump’s favour, bringing destruction to the world. When will he come to his senses? The whole world is suffering from hardships. Look at inflation, the poor will suffer everywhere,” Abdullah said.
He urged Trump to take steps to end the conflict, arguing that the economic consequences of the war would disproportionately affect poorer sections of society.
“The time has come for Trump to stop this war, and it is a matter of justice that Iran has the right to protect itself. Enough is enough; this is not a time of war now,” he added.
