Ashok Kaul blames Congress for Ladakh unrest

Srinagar, Sep 30: Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) General Secretary (Organisation), Ashok Kaul, on Tuesday came down heavily on the Congress party, alleging that it was behind the recent unrest in Ladakh, including the damage to government property and the BJP office.

Kaul also warned National Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to be “mindful of his words” regarding the situation in Leh. Kaul said this while talking to reporters on sidelines of the lines of joining of hotelier Sahil Reshie in BJP here.

Kaul’s remarks come in the wake of rising tensions in Ladakh following the Hill Development Council elections. The region has witnessed sporadic incidents of violence and protests, with political parties trading accusations over the causes.

Ashok Kaul directly blamed the Congress party for stoking the unrest in Ladakh, accusing it of attempting to revive its political fortunes in the region after its recent electoral defeat.

“Congress is behind the unrest, attempting to strengthen its base after losing the Hill Development Council elections. They’re burning government buildings, even our BJP office, which is unacceptable,” Kaul alleged.

He further condemned the destruction of public property, stating that such acts of violence reflect desperation and should not be tolerated in a democratic setup.

Kaul also took a swipe at CM Omar Abdullah over his recent comments on the situation in Leh. Without directly quoting CM Abdullah, Kaul cautioned him “against making inflammatory or diversionary statements.”

Reacting to reports surrounding the visit of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leaders to Kashmir, Kaul clarified that the visits were part of a broader outreach ahead of the centenary celebrations of the RSS.