National Conference President and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday extended full support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the wake of heightened tensions with Pakistan following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam.
Calling for national unity, Abdullah urged Islamabad to refrain from further provocations. “We have given our full support to the Prime Minister. After that, there should be no questions. He must take whatever steps are necessary,” Abdullah said while addressing reporters.
Responding to Pakistan’s repeated references to its nuclear capabilities, Abdullah firmly reminded that India is equally equipped. “We also have nuclear power — before them, in fact,” he said, adding, "India has never attacked anyone first. It all started from there (Pakistan), and we responded. Even today, we will not use it (nuclear weapons) unless they do. But if they use it, we have it too. May God never let such a situation arise".
The veteran leader also dismissed Congress party criticism of Prime Minister Modi, including posters suggesting he is "missing in action." “Where is he missing? I know he is in Delhi,” he retorted.
Abdullah strongly condemned Pakistan for its history of sponsoring terror attacks on Indian soil.
"There was the Mumbai attack, and it was proven they did it. The Pathankot attack, they did it, the Uri attack, they did it. They attacked in Kargi, and I was the chief minister at that time. They said they were not involved, but when we took strong action, they ran to the US President asking for help.” “If they want friendship, then such things cannot continue. It must stop. But if they want hostility, we are ready, and so are they,” Abdullah said.
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