Srinagar:Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has hit out at the sections of Indian media for “celebrating” the remarks of Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi on Kashmir, saying he had clearly supported freedom for Kashmir.
“I don’t get what sections of the Indian media are celebrating WRT #ShahidAfridi’s statement. Forget what he said about Pakistan’s 4 provinces, the byte I saw clearly had him supporting freedom for Kashmir & criticising human rights violations so how is that a victory for India?” tweeted Omar.
The flamboyant all-rounder from Pakistan had asked India and Pakistan to leave Kashmir "for the sake of humanity" and let Kashmiris decide their own future.
“Don’t give Kashmir to Pakistan or India either. Let them be independent. Humanity is big thing. Human are being killed there (Kashmir). It hurts to see humans are being killed whatever religion they may belong,” Afridi said while addressing students at the British Parliament.
The cricketer had also taken a dig at Pakistan by saying that the country was “already struggling to manage its four provinces” – a remark that earned him ire from Pakistan media following which he had to issue a clarification.
The cricketer accused Indian media of misinterpreting his comments and presenting them “out of context”.
“I’m passionate about my country and greatly value the struggles of Kashmiris. Humanity must prevail and they should get their rights,” he said in a tweet.