Srinagar, May 1: The political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a deepening controversy over the Urdu language. Chief Minister Umar Abdullah has firmly rejected allegations from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) claiming that the government has removed Urdu as an official language and from revenue records.
In a media interaction, CM Abdullah stated, “This party (PDP) is doing nothing but spreading lies. When did I issue an order to remove Urdu?” He also targeted PDP leader Iltija Mufti, questioning, “Iltija Mufti is educated, but how else can we explain this to her? Should we arrange tutoring classes for her?”
The Chief Minister clarified that the document the PDP refers to as an ‘order’ was actually a letter issued to seek public opinion. He emphasized, “As an elected government, it is our responsibility to consult the public before making any major decisions. This was not an order to remove Urdu.”
Abdullah challenged the PDP to publicly present any order that states Urdu is being removed. He further revealed that while a proposal to remove Urdu had been submitted, it remains with him, and he has neither approved it nor intends to in the future.
Just two days prior, Iltija Mufti had displayed an alleged government letter during a press conference, claiming that the government decided to eliminate Urdu as a mandatory language in revenue records and certain examinations.
The Chief Minister dismissed these allegations, asserting that the government does not discriminate against Urdu and that such rumors have no basis. Notably, the PDP has consistently accused Umar Abdullah’s government of making “anti-people decisions.” The party has also opposed the installation of electric meters aimed at curbing electricity theft, claiming Abdullah had promised to remove them before the elections.
However, the Chief Minister has already clarified that families below the poverty line (BPL) receive up to 200 units of free electricity.
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