“Ram is As Much Mine As Yours,”: Farooq Adbullah As He Rejects Hate Politics

Jammu: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah expressed optimism on Monday that the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22 would contribute to ending animosity against the Muslims in India. Abdullah, a former chief minister, emphasized his genuine admiration for Lord Ram, stating, “Ram is as much mine as yours.”

Addressing reporters at a public meeting, Abdullah extended his hope that the opening of the temple doors would foster unity and dissipate the prevailing hatred against Muslims. He remarked, “I have always praised Lord Ram from my heart, and I believe that with this event, hearts of the people will open.”

Undeterred by potential criticism or loss of votes, Abdullah defended his stance, drawing on references to Lord Ram in the Holy Quran and Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of India as Ram ‘Rajya.’ He stressed the importance of moving forward together with brotherhood and love.

In a veiled reference to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Abdullah criticized those exploiting the Ram temple issue for electoral gains, accusing them of fostering divisions based on religion, caste, and creed. As elections approach, he cautioned against succumbing to divisive tactics and urged a collective effort to move the nation forward.