Key Takeaways
- The DMK MP faced backlash after making remarks about Hindi heartland states.
- Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti publicly condemned the statements, calling for religious respect.
- The controversy heightened political tensions in Srinagar and highlighted sensitivities around regional identities.
Srinagar: The two former Chief Ministers, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, have condemned the remarks made by DMK MP D N V Senthil Kumar.
The comments targeted the three Hindi heartland states, sparking widespread criticism across the region.
Kumar had already withdrawn his controversial remarks.
National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that such words should not be used.
“Why do you say something which hurts the sentiments of people? Maybe you don’t follow this religion but there are millions who follow this and what’s the reason to make fun of them? Would our Tamil brothers and sisters be happy if we had made such a statement regarding them? This should not happen. We should respect others’ religion,” Omar told reporters in south Kashmir.
Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehooba Mufti said she was shocked at these remarks.
“Shocked at the derogatory remarks made by a DMK MP. Everyone in a democracy has the right to vote as per their wishes. But to demean them for it is completely unwarranted and unacceptable. The country stands divided as it is. Why must we add to it?” Mufti said in a post on X on Tuesday evening.
