Omar Abdullah Defends Rahul Gandhi Amid Controversy Over Germany Visit

Katra, Jammu: Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has come to the defence of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is currently facing criticism for his recent trip to Germany. Abdullah stated that there is nothing unlawful about travelling abroad, even for politicians, and pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other ministers frequently engage in international travel.

The controversy arose after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused Rahul Gandhi of meeting with what they termed 'anti-India forces' during his visit. Abdullah questioned the validity of the BJP's claims, highlighting that engaging with foreign academics and institutions is part of political discourse and should not be seen as detrimental to national interests.

"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 object?" Abdullah stated to reporters upon arriving in Katra aboard a Vande Bharat train from Srinagar.

The BJP's national spokesperson, Gaurav Bhatia, had previously accused Rahul Gandhi of undermining Indian interests by travelling abroad during the Winter Session of Parliament. Bhatia pointed to a photograph of Gandhi with Dr Cornelia Woll, the president of the Hertie School in Berlin, as evidence of him associating with 'anti-India forces.' Bhatia claimed that Woll is linked to the Central European University, which is supported by the Open Society Foundation founded by American investor George Soros, who is often criticized by the BJP.

Abdullah further commented on the current weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that the region has experienced a dry spell since November. He expressed concerns regarding water availability and air quality, as well as the potential adverse effects on the winter tourism season. "We are waiting impatiently for snow. It has been dry since November. We are feeling a little shortage of water everywhere. Pollution has also increased in both Jammu and Kashmir. Whether it is rain or snow, the air will be cleaner. But the big thing is that our winter tourism season will start," he said.

He optimistically remarked that popular tourist destinations such as Patnitop, Bhaderwah, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg would attract visitors once the snow arrives. "We hope tourists come and enjoy the beauty of the snow," he added.