Ex-R&AW chief Dulat claims Farooq privately backed Article 370 abrogation, he denies
In a recent book titled “The Chief Minister and the Spy”, former R&AW chief AS Dulat has made a sensational claim that former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah privately backed the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to the state. However, Farooq Abdullah has denied these claims, terming them as a “figment of imagination” of the author.
In his book, Dulat reportedly writes that Abdullah’s National Conference (NC) had suggested that the abrogation of Article 370 would have helped in passing the Bill in Parliament. Dulat claims that Abdullah had privately expressed his support for the move, stating that it would have been beneficial for the state.
However, Farooq Abdullah has categorically denied these claims, saying that they are baseless and unfounded. In a statement, Abdullah termed Dulat’s claims as a “figment of imagination” and said that he never discussed the issue with the former R&AW chief. “I don’t know what Mr Dulat is talking about. This is a figment of imagination of the author who claims to be my friend,” Abdullah said.
Abdullah’s denial has raised several questions about the veracity of Dulat’s claims. If Abdullah did indeed support the abrogation of Article 370, why did he not publicly announce it or discuss it with his party leaders? Moreover, if the NC had indeed suggested that the abrogation would have helped in passing the Bill, why did the party not take a clearer stance on the issue?
The controversy surrounding Dulat’s claims has sparked a heated debate in the country, with many questioning the credibility of the former R&AW chief. Some have accused Dulat of trying to garner attention and publicity by making sensational claims, while others have defended him, saying that he has a reputation for being a straight-shooter and a man of integrity.
It is worth noting that the abrogation of Article 370 was a highly controversial move that sparked widespread protests and violence in Jammu and Kashmir. The move was seen as a blow to the state’s autonomy and a violation of its special status. Many political parties, including the NC, had opposed the move, citing concerns about the state’s future and the impact it would have on its people.
Dulat’s claims have also raised questions about the nature of his relationship with Abdullah. If Dulat is indeed a friend of Abdullah, as he claims, why did he not discuss these issues with him before writing about them in his book? Moreover, if Dulat’s claims are true, why did Abdullah not speak out against the move when it was being debated in Parliament?
The controversy surrounding Dulat’s claims highlights the complex and often controversial nature of politics in India. It also raises questions about the role of individuals like Dulat, who have access to sensitive information and are privy to confidential discussions. While Dulat’s claims may be seen as sensational and attention-grabbing, they also serve as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in politics.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Dulat’s claims about Farooq Abdullah’s support for the abrogation of Article 370 serves as a reminder of the complex and often contentious nature of politics in India. While Dulat’s claims may be seen as sensational and attention-grabbing, they also highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in politics. As the debate surrounding Dulat’s claims continues, it is essential to separate fact from fiction and to ensure that the truth is ultimately revealed.
Source: https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/5880e3bf-0a05-40d6-887a-465b5c760b3a
