Omar Abdullah Leaves Jantar Mantar in Auto-Rickshaw, Cites Followers

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah left the Jantar Mantar protest site in New Delhi in an auto-rickshaw on Tuesday, accompanied by his two sons, Zahir Abdullah and Zamir Abdullah. Abdullah stated that he made the unusual departure because supporters of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) were following him.

Abdullah was at Jantar Mantar to participate in a protest against the CAA and NRC. The protest, organized by several opposition parties, has been ongoing for weeks. According to eyewitnesses, a group of individuals, believed to be CAA supporters, approached the protest site, leading to a tense atmosphere.

In a video posted on social media, Abdullah is seen getting into an auto-rickshaw with his sons. He later explained, “I was told that some people following me could cause trouble. To avoid any confrontation, I decided to leave quietly in an auto.” He did not specify who the followers were, but referred to them as “CJP supporters,” likely meaning those who support the Citizenship Amendment Act and related policies.

The National Conference leader’s decision to travel by auto-rickshaw, a common mode of transport in Delhi, drew attention on social media. Some users praised his humility, while others questioned the security arrangements for political leaders. The Delhi Police has not issued any statement regarding the incident.

Omar Abdullah has been a prominent critic of the CAA and NRC, arguing that they discriminate against Muslims. The Citizenship Amendment Act, passed in December 2019, fast-tracks citizenship for non-Muslim immigrants from three neighbouring countries, leading to widespread protests across India.

The protest at Jantar Mantar continues, with participants demanding the repeal of the CAA and a nationwide NRC. Abdullah is expected to return to the protest site later this week.