Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday reiterated his scepticism over exit polls, expressing confidence that they would once again fail to reflect actual election outcomes.
“I have never trusted exit polls. They have proved wrong in the past, and I hope they prove wrong this time as well,” Abdullah told reporters.
On the FIR filed against Iltija Mufti, Abdullah said he was not aware of the reasons behind the case. “I don’t know why it was filed. Iltija Mufti must know,” he remarked.
Addressing concerns over rising Hajj expenses, Abdullah said costs have increased by around ₹10,000, largely due to escalating fuel prices amid the ongoing global crisis. “Pilgrims are worried. Fuel prices have gone up, and naturally, the overall cost has increased. There is little we can do about it,” he said, adding that people are praying for peace to ease economic pressures.
On India-Pakistan relations, Abdullah underscored the importance of dialogue but refrained from elaborating further given the sensitive and evolving situation. “This involves both countries, and we must think accordingly. I cannot comment beyond this,” he said.
Commenting on the Rajya Sabha elections, he alleged that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) did not support his party. “They did not vote for us. It is for them to say whom they supported—only God knows,” he added.
Reacting to reports regarding the status of Urdu in the revenue department, Abdullah dismissed the claims as baseless. “No decision has been taken. Public opinion has been sought, but Urdu is our language and it will not disappear from Jammu and Kashmir,” he asserted.
Taking a swipe at opposition parties, Abdullah accused them of being responsible for past challenges in the region. “They have little else to say. Those who contributed to the destruction here should not be forgotten, even if they express concern today,” he said.
