Attacks on Kashmiris outside J&K unacceptable, must stop: CM Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Jan 29: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said attacks on people from Kashmir in other parts of the country, including Himachal Pradesh, were “unacceptable” and must be stopped immediately, asserting that his government would intervene wherever necessary to prevent such incidents.

In a statement posted on social media, Abdullah said it was contradictory to claim Jammu and Kashmir as an inalienable part of India while Kashmiris continued to live in fear outside the Union Territory.

“It can’t be claimed that J&K is an inalienable part of India while people from Kashmir, in other parts of the country, live in fear for their lives,” the chief minister said.

Referring to a recent series of attacks, including one reported from Himachal Pradesh, Abdullah said his government would take all required steps to ensure the safety of Kashmiris living or travelling outside the UT.

“My Government will step in wherever necessary and will do whatever is needed to ensure these incidents are not repeated,” he said.

The chief minister also urged the Union Home Ministry to take proactive steps and sensitise other states to prevent targeted attacks and harassment of people from Jammu and Kashmir.

“I hope the Home Ministry, Government of India, will also sensitise other states on the same lines,” Abdullah added.