Following a deadly blast near Delhi’s Red Fort on November 10 that claimed at least 15 lives, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticised the widespread suspicion cast on the people of Kashmir.
He highlighted how even innocent Kashmiris face mistrust, including being singled out for minor actions like driving vehicles with J&K registration in Delhi.
The prime accused, Dr Umar Un Nabi from Pulwama, along with associates linked to a terror module, is being investigated by multiple agencies including Delhi Police and the National Investigation Agency.
Abdullah condemned the attack while stressing that not every Kashmiri is involved in terrorism, calling for fair treatment and an end to collective blame.
“When attempts are made to bring everyone into the ambit of what few people have done, then it is obvious that it becomes difficult for us to leave for outside,” CM Abdullah said.
Omar Abdullah’s Concerns on Stigma
Addressing the incident at a Jammu Development Authority meeting in Kulgam, Omar Abdullah expressed grave concern about how the actions of a few individuals have tainted the image of the entire Kashmiri population. He said the pervasive suspicion has made it difficult for people from Kashmir to travel or live without being questioned and viewed suspiciously.
Abdullah shared his personal feeling of hesitation before using his own vehicle outside Jammu and Kashmir, citing fears of being stopped and questioned merely for having J&K vehicle plates.
“Today, driving a vehicle with J&K registration in Delhi is considered a crime. When I do not have much security with me, even I think about whether I should take my car out or not; someone would ask me to stop at the side and ask for my identity, ” Jammu Kashmir National Conference shared an excerpt from Omar Abdullah’s speech.
He emphasised that parents fear sending their children outside the region due to the hostile environment created by such sweeping generalisations. Abdullah stressed that innocent Kashmiris should not be defamed or treated as guilty for actions they had no part in.
Delhi Blast Details
The explosion occurred at a crowded location near the Red Fort, instantly killing at least 15 people and causing widespread fear. Authorities quickly launched a multi-agency investigation, involving the Delhi Police Special Cell, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and Crime Branch officials.
The blast was triggered by a vehicle allegedly driven by Dr Umar Un Nabi, described by investigators as a radicalised doctor, connected to a terror module. His alleged associates, Dr Muzammil Shakeel Ganaie from Pulwama and Dr Adeel Ahmed Rather from Anantnag, were alleged to be involved in a “white collar” role within the terror network.
Officials continue to review CCTV footage and leads while reassuring the public that the probe is thorough and evidence-based.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The tragic blast and resulting prejudice remind us of the fragility of social harmony in a diverse nation. It is vital to condemn violence unequivocally while refusing to stereotype entire communities based on the deeds of a few.
Upholding empathy, fairness, and open dialogue is key to fostering coexistence and peace. The fear and mistrust that follow such incidents carve deeper divides and must be challenged.
