BJP vs Omar takes a ‘love letter’ turn: Party sends ₹100-cr defamation notice to J-K CM over ‘ ₹20-30 cr offer’ claim

A political dispute between India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has escalated, following allegations of attempted bribery. The BJP's Jammu and Kashmir unit has served Abdullah with a legal notice demanding ₹100 crore in damages.

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I consider this a great honour as I am the only politician in Jammu and Kashmir to have been bestowed with a love letter like this by the BJP. I consider it a mark of respect that I am obviously a political force in Jammu and Kashmir that they cannot ignore

The notice stems from Abdullah's public claim that the BJP attempted to lure National Conference legislators with cash and ministerial positions to destabilize his government. He specifically alleged that the BJP offered between ₹20 to ₹30 crore to at least one National Conference Member of the Legislative Assembly.

Reacting to the BJP's legal action, Abdullah dismissed the notice, calling it a "love letter" and a "mark of respect." He stated that he views the notice as an acknowledgment of his political influence in Jammu and Kashmir, suggesting the BJP cannot ignore his standing.

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They take political fights and hide behind the courts

Abdullah further criticized the BJP's approach, suggesting they resort to legal means when faced with political challenges. He noted that he could have made similar allegations within the assembly, where statements are protected, but chose to speak publicly. He indicated that he plans to send legal notices to the specific BJP leader who has made repeated allegations against him and others.

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Issue an unconditional public apology within seven days of receiving the notice. Refrain from publishing or circulating any further defamatory material concerning the BJP. Immediately cease and desist from making or repeating any such statements