Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he had no information on why the Centre banned the Awami Action Committee (AAC), the socio-religious organisation led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, as no intelligence regarding the decision was shared with his government.
He made these remarks while speaking to reporters after the conclusion of the second leg of Khelo India in Gulmarg.
His statement comes amid speculation that the ban may be linked to Mirwaiz’s recent criticism of a fashion show in Gulmarg, which sparked outrage in Kashmir. Some politicians even described the event as ‘soft porn’.
“These matters do not fall under the jurisdiction of the elected government, and no intelligence inputs regarding this ban have been shared with us,” Abdullah said. “I will not make any assumptions without knowing the reason behind this decision.”
He also noted that since Mirwaiz was released from house arrest, he had not made any statements that could be considered provocative.
“As far as I have observed, he has not said anything unpleasant or inflammatory,” he said. “We do not know the reason for this ban at this point.”
Call for better winter sports infrastructure
Abdullah also spoke about the need to improve winter sports facilities in Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed disappointment that the region—where winter sports first started in India—did not secure a top-three position in the rankings.
“We need to enhance the infrastructure for our skiers. I hope that this year, we can improve facilities and coaching so that Jammu and Kashmir secures a place in the top three at the next Khelo India Winter Games,” he said.
Response to fashion show controversy
Addressing the controversy surrounding the fashion show in Gulmarg, Abdullah said, “People have said what they had to say, and the matter is now closed.”
When asked about opposition leader Sunil Sharma’s claim that a hotel owned by his relatives was involved in the event, Abdullah responded, “Two of my relatives own hotels—does that mean I am responsible for everything that happens there?”
