Srinagar, Apr 17: People’s Democratic Front (PDF) president Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen on Thursday held both National Conference (NC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) responsible for the “present mess” in the region, saying “some cheated in silence and some hugged the (Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in public”.
Reacting strongly to the explosive revelations made by former RAW Chief A S Dulat, Hakeem said the people of Jammu and Kashmir had long suspected betrayal, and now the dots are connecting.
“Dulat Sahab is no ordinary man. He’s someone who was seen as the closest confidant of Farooq Sahab. In Delhi’s political circles, he’s considered the biggest advocate for Farooq Abdullah. So when he says that the abrogation of Article 370 happened with Farooq Sahab’s consent and that from 2020 to 2023 Farooq was desperate to align with BJP—it carries tremendous weight,” Hakeem said.
“If these claims are false, then file a defamation case against Dulat. But don’t try to mislead the people with emotional speeches. Silence in such matters is not innocence—it’s an admission,” he added.
Taking the attack further, the PDF chief said, “Let’s be honest. NC betrayed people from behind the curtain—but PDP did it openly. They shamelessly formed a government with BJP in 2014, knowing very well the ideological consequences for Kashmir. All for power. Both parties have played with the sentiments of the people, one with a dagger in the dark, the other in broad daylight.”
Hakeem said it’s time for both NC and PDP to tender a public apology to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “They must come forward, admit their mistakes, and apologise for decades of exploitation, lies, and political deceit. The people of J&K deserve honesty—not backroom deals and secret understandings.”
The former minister said the new generation will not be fooled by photo-ops, grand speeches or crocodile tears. “Kashmiris know who stood firm and who sold out. The era of hollow promises is over,” he added.
