Former J&K CM Denounces Allegations in A.S. Dulat’s Memoir
Srinagar, 16 April 2025: A Political Storm Over Article 370
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has fiercely rejected claims made by ex-RAW chief A.S. Dulat in his upcoming memoir, The Chief Minister and the Spy. Dulat alleges that Abdullah privately supported the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, a move that stripped J&K of its special status. Abdullah has dismissed these assertions as “cheap stunts” aimed at boosting book sales.
Farooq Abdullah’s Response
- Public Condemnation:
- Abdullah described Dulat’s claims as “fiction” and a “figment of imagination.” He emphasized that his opposition to the abrogation was well-known, citing his detention alongside his son Omar Abdullah during the period.
- Criticism of Dulat’s Motives:
- The NC leader suggested that Dulat’s book might be an attempt to gain influence or financial success. “It is possible that he wants to make a new relationship,” Abdullah remarked.
- Historical Context:
- Abdullah highlighted his consistent stance in defense of J&K’s autonomy, referencing his role in forming the People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD) to advocate for the restoration of the region’s special status.
Key Points of Contention
Dulat’s book claims that the National Conference (NC) would have supported the abrogation of Article 370 had it been consulted. Abdullah refuted this, pointing out that the J&K Assembly had been dissolved in 2018, making such a resolution impossible.
Abdullah also dismissed Dulat’s portrayal of their relationship, rejecting the notion that he was easily influenced by the former spy chief. “I am a man of my own mind, and I only decide. I am not anyone’s puppet,” he asserted.
Looking Ahead
As Dulat’s memoir sparks debate, Abdullah’s strong rebuttal underscores the complexities of J&K’s political landscape. The controversy highlights the enduring tensions surrounding Article 370 and the narratives shaping its legacy.
