Opposition leaders in Kashmir on Monday slammed J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for according a welcome to Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju in Srinagar, despite that he introduced the controversial Waqf Bill in Parliament last week, which was subsequently passed by a majority vote.
Rijiju and Omar on Monday enjoyed a morning walk together in the iconic Tulip Garden in Srinagar, nestled in the foothills of the Zabarwan range overlooking Dal Lake.
“A refreshing morning walk amid the vibrant hues of the Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, with Hon’ble CM Shri @OmarAbdullah ji, and also glad to meet Dr Farooq Abdullah sahab. Nature at its finest & conversations filled with warmth & vision, a truly special morning,” Rijiju posted on X, while sharing pictures and video of the walk alongside Omar.
However, this didn’t go well with the Opposition leaders.
“What’s left to say when the Chief Minister of India’s only Muslim majority state gives a red carpet welcome to the BJP Minister who introduced the Waqf bill meant to disempower & debilitate Muslims Stands in stark contrast to Tamil Nadu CM, who showed spine by swiftly introducing a resolution against Waqf bill,” Peoples Democratic Party leader Iltija Mufti said on X.
Her party leader, Rafique Rather said that the people who should have been received with protests and black flags over the Waqf Bill were given a red carpet reception by those claiming to represent the sentiments of the people.
” It is very unfortunate,” the senior PDP leader said.
People’s Conference Chairman and Handwara MLA Sajjad Lone criticized the Chief Minister for not boycotting Rijiju
“The least Muslims of India deserved was that in J and K, the only Muslim majority province in India, the CM, as a mark of protest, stays away from Mr Kiren Rijju, who presented the waqf bill. Instead, he tags along with Farooq Sahib as well. What a shame,” Lone posted on X.
