Omar Abdullah alleges BJP offered ₹20–30 crore, ministry to NC MLA; BJP demands proof

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has alleged that a BJP functionary offered one of the National Conference’s Jammu MLAs ₹20–30 crore, a ministerial berth, and a promise of statehood in exchange for joining the BJP.

Addressing a gathering, Abdullah claimed the MLA rejected the offer and informed him about the alleged attempt.

“A BJP official, a Supreme Court lawyer, told one of my Jammu MLAs in a closed room, ‘We will give ₹20 to 30 crore, one ministry, and statehood. You walk with us.’ Do they think the faith of these people is so cheap?” Abdullah said.

Accusing the BJP of trying to seize power “through the back door”, the chief minister asserted that his party would not allow such attempts to succeed.

“BJP people, don’t consider us so weak. There will be no entry for you from the back door. The people have kept you behind, and you will remain behind,” he said.

BJP demands evidence, threatens legal action

The Jammu and Kashmir BJP rejected the allegations, asking Abdullah to identify the BJP leader and the MLA involved or publicly apologise. The party warned it would initiate legal proceedings if he failed to substantiate his claims.

BJP spokesperson and MLA RS Pathania accused the chief minister of making “baseless” allegations to divert attention from his government’s governance record.

“If such a serious incident occurred, why was it not reported to the investigating agencies? An elected chief minister cannot make such allegations without placing evidence before the authorities,” Pathania said.

NC to protest for statehood on July 20

Abdullah also announced that the National Conference will stage a protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on July 20, demanding the restoration of full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.

He said the party was still awaiting permission but insisted the protest would go ahead. Abdullah appealed to all political parties and legislators to unite on the issue, saying the fight for statehood transcends political rivalries.

“I appeal to all leaders to set aside electoral battles and join hands for the restoration of statehood. This is a fight for the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.