Srinagar, March 20, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly criticized Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma for repeatedly using the term ‘jihad’ when referring
Srinagar, March 20, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly criticized Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma for repeatedly using the term ‘jihad’ when referring to Muslims. Abdullah’s remarks came in response to Sharma’s claim that the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) promotes the “two-nation theory.”
Speaking to reporters in Jammu on Thursday, Abdullah condemned Sharma’s remarks and questioned his intentions.
“He uses the word ‘jihad’ in everything. He gets angry when some other member talks about his religion. Is he trying to prove that Muslims don’t know anything except ‘jihad’? This is wrong,” said Omar Abdullah.
His comments followed the tragic demise of Gurez leader Faqir Mohammad Khan, a former BJP MLA, who allegedly took his own life. Khan’s sudden death has shocked political circles in Jammu and Kashmir.
The exchange between Omar Abdullah and Sunil Sharma has further intensified political tensions in the Union Territory. Sharma, a senior BJP leader and LoP in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, has consistently criticized Abdullah and his party. Recently, he accused JKNC of promoting divisive politics and supporting the “two-nation theory,” a claim Abdullah has firmly denied.
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As a former Chief Minister, Abdullah has always emphasized the importance of communal harmony and secularism. His latest comments reflect his frustration with the constant stereotyping of Muslims in political debates.
The word ‘jihad’ is often misunderstood and misused in political and media discussions. In Islamic teachings, ‘jihad’ refers to a spiritual struggle or an effort toward righteousness. However, mainstream discourse has largely reduced it to violent extremism. When politicians use the term carelessly, it fuels Islamophobia and deepens communal divisions.
Omar Abdullah’s strong rebuttal to Sunil Sharma highlights concerns over such narratives being exploited for political gains. Many believe that linking Muslims solely with ‘jihad’ is misleading and harmful to communal harmony in a region already dealing with complex socio-political challenges.
Abdullah called on political leaders to act responsibly and avoid using religion for political advantage. He stressed that Jammu and Kashmir has experienced enough turmoil and urged leaders to focus on unity rather than division.
The heated exchange between the two leaders has sparked widespread discussions in political circles and on social media. Many voices are calling for an end to religious stereotyping in politics. As Jammu and Kashmir progresses on its political path, fostering inclusive and respectful dialogue remains crucial.
