Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has emphasised the need for regional parties to come together to fight the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, as it is necessary to “save the country from being divided on religious lines.”
Speaking in Bengaluru on Wednesday after meeting former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda at his residence, he said that India is a country where there is unity in diversity and this should be protected.
This comes against the backdrop of speculation of JD(S) joining hands with the BJP in the Lok Sabha elections. On Tuesday, in response to a question, Mr. Gowda had said: “Show me one party which has not associated with the BJP, either directly or indirectly.” However, Mr. Abdullah said that the meeting was a courtesy call and did not disclose the nature of discussion with Mr. Gowda.