Srinagar/Jammu: Political tensions escalated in Jammu and Kashmir after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) attempted to lure a Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) legislator with an offer of Rs20–30 crore.
Omar further said that BJP tried to buy the MLA by promising a ministerial position, and the promise of restoration of statehood in exchange for switching sides.
Without naming the legislator or those behind the purported attempt, he accused the BJP of trying to weaken the National Conference.
Omar stated that the alleged offer was made to destabilizing his government.
BJP with 29 seats in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly plays a role of main opposition party.
The BJP strongly rejected the allegations, describing them as baseless and politically motivated. BJP leader Ravinder Raina challenged Abdullah to produce evidence to substantiate his claims.
BJP has also said that the party will file a defamation case if no evidence is presented.
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The BJP also accused Abdullah of attempting to divert attention from internal issues within the National Conference by making unsubstantiated allegations against the party.
The latest exchange comes amid an intensifying political confrontation between the NC and the BJP over the issue of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood.
The BJP alleged that the NC was giving legitimacy to separatist voices, an accusation the party has repeatedly levelled against its political rival.
With both sides trading sharp accusations, the political atmosphere in Jammu and Kashmir has become increasingly charged.
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Omar Abdullah is expected to address another public rally in Jammu, where his allegations are likely to remain a key point of political debate.
Meanwhile, the BJP has reiterated that it will pursue legal action if the Chief Minister fails to provide evidence supporting his claims.
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