Srinagar, Dec 29 : National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Monday condemned the stone-pelting incident in Kishtwar, where a mosque and madrassa were reportedly targeted, urging the Union government to issue directions to states to prevent violence against religious institutions.
Reacting to the incident, Abdullah said that there are such people and they will remain. “Evil exists and will do its work. But India is a secular country, where the Constitution gives every religion the freedom to run its institutions. It is up to the Centre to guide the states to stop this,” he said.
On India–Bangladesh diplomatic relations, Abdullah said there should be cooperation after the upcoming elections in Bangladesh.
“I want friendship with Bangladesh. Elections will be held there soon and a new government will be formed. I hope New Delhi and the new government will open new ways of cooperation,” he added.
Speaking on Kashmir, Abdullah said that he hopes the New Year brings peace, eases suffering, and supports tourism in the region.(KNS)
