Amidst accusations from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is meeting with "anti-India forces" during his recent trip to Germany, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has come to Gandhi's defense. Abdullah dismissed the BJP's claims, asserting that traveling abroad and engaging in discussions with individuals and institutions overseas is not a crime and is a common practice among politicians, including the Prime Minister.
Abdullah questioned the BJP's objections, asking, "When has Rahul Gandhi met any anti-Indian personality? Is it a crime to go abroad? He is free to go anywhere and talk (to anyone). Everyone does it. The prime minister does it. All ministers do it. Why should the BJP people object?". He emphasized that opposition leaders, like those in power, have the right to travel overseas and participate in discussions, viewing such interactions as a normal part of political and public life.
The BJP's allegations stem from a photograph showing Gandhi with Cornelia Woll, the president of the Berlin-based Hertie School. BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia claimed that Woll is a trustee of the Central European University, which he alleges is funded by George Soros's Open Society Foundation, branding this as evidence of Gandhi's association with "anti-India forces". Bhatia further alleged that Gandhi routinely travels abroad during parliamentary sessions to meet individuals who are hostile to India. He accused Gandhi of defaming India during previous foreign visits and acting against the country's interests. Bhatia stated, "If anyone meets anti-India forces and insults Bharat from foreign soil, it's none other than Rahul...George Soros and Rahul Gandhi are two bodies but one soul".
Abdullah's support for Gandhi comes at a time when the BJP has repeatedly linked Gandhi to George Soros, alleging foreign influence and conspiracy against the country. The BJP has also questioned why Gandhi's itinerary is not made public and accused him of hatching a conspiracy against India by joining hands with "anti-India forces".
In addition to his comments on the political controversy, Abdullah also addressed local concerns in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted the prolonged dry spell in the region since November, which has raised concerns about water supply, air quality, and the winter tourism season. "We are waiting impatiently for snow. It has been dry since November. And we are feeling a little shortage of water everywhere. Pollution has also increased in both, Jammu and Kashmir regions," Abdullah said. He expressed hope that snowfall would revitalize key tourist destinations and attract visitors to the region.
