In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, political leaders have strongly reacted after viral images showed Chief Minister Omar Abdullah standing far behind officials while Indian Home Minister Amit Shah was being briefed during his visit to flood-hit areas of Jammu. According to Kashmir Media  Service, PDP leader Iltija Mufti said it was “deeply unfortunate” that the protocol normally extended to the Chief Minister was conspicuously missing.

She wrote on social media that politics aside, Omar Abdullah is an elected CM representing the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and deserved to be treated with respect. The photographs also sparked sharp criticism from opposition voices. AAP MLA Mehraj Malik reminded Omar Abdullah of earlier warnings not to trust the BJP, urging him to show self-respect and stand up for his people instead of trailing behind the ruling party leaders. 

Meanwhile, J&K Congress Working President Raman Bhalla described Amit Shah’s visit to the flood-affected areas as a “damp squib,” saying the highly publicized tour ended in disappointment as no relief package or concrete measures were announced for the suffering communities. The controversy has fueled debate across the territory, with many viewing it as yet another example of New Delhi’s disregard for elected representatives of the region.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)