New Delhi: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has sharply criticized the BJP-led government for its handling of the 1999 Indian Airlines flight IC 814 hijacking. Abdullah alleged that he advised the then-central government not to surrender to the hijackers demands by releasing three high-profile terrorists in exchange for the hostages freedom.1999 hijacking incidentOn December 24, 1999, Indian Airlines flight IC 814, en route to Delhi from Kathmandu, was hijacked shortly after takeoff. The hijackers, demanding the release of terrorists, led to the Indian governments controversial decision to free Maulana Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar. These individuals were terrorists with significant ties to militant activities.Abdullah slams BJP for releasing terroristsAt an event hosted by Aaj Tak in Srinagar, Abdullah reflected on the incident, stating, Three terrorists were released. You are seeing the result of that terrorist activities are happening. I told them (BJP government) at the time, dont do it. They did not listen. They think they will strengthen the country despite making mistakes after mistakes. His comments highlight his ongoing frustration with the decisions made during that critical period.Call for dialogue with PakistanAbdullah also addressed his stance on dialogue with Pakistan regarding terrorism. He questioned the current governments approach, pointing out that while talks are being held with China, which he accused of occupying Indian land, the issue of terrorism with Pakistan remains unresolved. Vajpayee had said that friends can be changed, but neighbours cannot. If youre friends with them, then the nations will progress. But if theres enmity, then the progress would stall, he added. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister when the hijacking occurred.Criticism of current governmentAbdullah intensified his criticism of the current administration, noting that despite having full control over Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370, the government has failed to effectively manage terrorism in the region. The hijacking incident has recently been brought back into the spotlight with the release of Netflixs series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, which has faced controversy over its portrayal of the hijackers.
