The BJP hit back at Farooq for his remarks that communalism was not acceptable, saying that the country does not need a certificate from the Union minister to become secular.
As Farooq, the National Conference candidate from Srinagar arrived at the venue, an explosion was heard causing panic and sending security forces into a tizzy.
The explosion sounded like a grenade blast. However, police did not confirm it. The rally continued as people did not leave the venue.
The NC leader while taking a dig at Bihar BJP leader Giriraj Singh said, "they say those who do not vote for Modi should go to Pakistan. (I say) Those who vote for Modi should drown in the sea."
In inflammatory remarks for which an FIR has been filed against him, Giriraj had said that critics of the BJP Prime Ministerial candidate should go to Pakistan.
Farooq said he is not scared of attacks, adding "even if they(militants) throw thousands of grenades, Farooq Abdullah will neither get scared nor will turn back."
Those who carry out such attacks will be defeated, he said, "God willing, we will win and push them away."
Attacking UPA ally National Conference, BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad said good governance is the "biggest casualty" in Jammu and Kashmir for which the NC government is responsible.
"Neither the country nor Jammu and Kashmir need a certificate from Farooq Abdullah to become secular," Prasad told reporters in Delhi.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
