India is safe in the hands of PM Modi, says Farooq Abdullah on Pahalgam attack fallout

JAMMU and Kashmir National Conference President, Farooq Abdullah on Friday strongly condemned the recent terror attack in J&K's Pahalgam and called for strict action against the perpetrators of the massacre of 26 innocent civilians. He also asserted that India was safe in the hands of Prime Minister NarendraModi.

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In an interview with IANS, Abdullah spoke about Pakistan's role in terrorism and demanded strict action against those involved in the recent Pahalgam attack. He also discussed issues ranging from the Indus Water Treaty to the caste census.

IANS: What is your opinion on the Pahalgam terror attack?

Farooq Abdullah: The Pahalgam incident was very painful. It should not have happened. This is a murder of humanity. Those who did this must be condemned as much as possible. They should be caught and punished in such a way that it becomes an example for others.

IANS: Do you think Pakistan has a hand in the Pahalgam incident?

Farooq Abdullah: Anyone could be involved in the Pahalgam incident. Until we catch them, we cannot say who it is. The handlers must be the same ones who did it before. It's not just about today. They did it in Uri too. You must have seen what happened in Pulwama. Who did it in Mumbai? Who did it in Pathankot? Who did it in Rajouri and Poonch? The handlers are sitting there.

IANS: Was the Pahalgam incident a conspiracy by Pakistan?

Farooq Abdullah: They (Pakistan) feel that we (Indians) are living in peace and thousands of tourists are roaming here in Kashmir. They didn't like it. They don't want us to live in peace. Since 1947, they have tried to destroy as much as they can and will continue to try.

IANS: Can India take back Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir?

Farooq Abdullah: This is a decision for the country's Prime Minister to take. Farooq Abdullah cannot give him any advice. This must be the Prime Minister's call.