Union Minister Emphasizes Chance Meeting, Urges Focus on Kashmir’s Beauty
Srinagar, 09 April 2025: A Meeting Under Scrutiny
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has sought to clarify the controversy surrounding his recent interaction with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah at Srinagar’s iconic Tulip Garden. The meeting, which coincided with ongoing protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who accused the NC of extending a warm welcome to the architect of the contentious legislation.
Rijiju, however, described the encounter as a chance meeting during his early morning visit to the garden, emphasizing that it was not prearranged and involved only a brief exchange of pleasantries.
The Encounter at Tulip Garden
The Tulip Garden, Asia’s largest, served as the backdrop for the interaction, which has since become a focal point of political debate. Rijiju explained that his visit was scheduled early in the morning to avoid inconveniencing tourists. “I briefly came across Omar Abdullah and Farooq Abdullah during my visit. It was not a planned meeting, and we only exchanged greetings,” Rijiju stated.
The timing of the encounter has raised eyebrows, given the ongoing protests in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly over the Waqf Act. Opposition leaders, including PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, have questioned the NC’s decision to engage with Rijiju while simultaneously opposing the legislation in the Assembly.
Opposition Criticism
Mehbooba Mufti accused the NC of hypocrisy, stating, “On one hand, they claim to oppose the Waqf Act, and on the other, they roll out the red carpet for the very person responsible for it. This is a betrayal of the people’s trust.”
People’s Conference Chairman Sajad Lone echoed similar sentiments, describing the interaction as “optics over substance.” “The NC’s actions send mixed signals to the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Lone remarked.
Rijiju’s Response
Rijiju urged critics to avoid politicizing the interaction, emphasizing that his visit was focused on appreciating the natural beauty of Kashmir. “Let us not drag politics into everything. The Tulip Garden is a symbol of Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty, and my visit was meant to highlight that,” he said.
The Union Minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting development and inclusivity in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the Waqf Act aims to streamline the management of Waqf properties for the benefit of the community.
Public Reaction
The incident has sparked mixed reactions among the public. While some view it as a harmless interaction, others see it as a reflection of the complex political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir. Social media platforms have been abuzz with debates, with hashtags like #TulipGardenMeeting and #WaqfActControversy trending among users.
Looking Ahead
As the controversy continues to unfold, the focus remains on the broader implications of the Waqf Act and the political strategies of Jammu and Kashmir’s leaders. The Tulip Garden encounter serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between governance, public perception, and political alliances in the region.
