PM rally: Omar says J&K govt using police to muster crowd

Srinagar: Opposition National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Friday alleged that security of his "colleagues" has been reduced as the state government has directed police personnel and others to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally on Saturday to muster the numbers.

On the eve of Modi's visit, he also said that the state government was using the official machinery for Saturday’s rally, which was "shameless".

"Colleagues tell me that their JK police guard has been drastically scaled down & the personnel ordered to participate in the 7th Nov rally (of the Prime Minister)," Omar tweeted.

"Similar instructions given to SPOs, Anganwari workers & daily wagers to make up the numbers for PM's rally because PDP workers reluctant," the former Chief Minister said, adding "How else will they make up the numbers & produce a gathering for the cameras & channels?"

In another tweet, Omar said it was "shameless" on part of the government to use state apparatus for Modi's rally.

"Just saw State Govt employees in an AMBULANCE tying up banners welcoming the PM on behalf of the state Health Minister. #Shameless," he added.

The Prime Minister, who will inaugurate Baglihar Phase II power project at Ramban on Jammu-Srinagar national highway, is scheduled to address a public rally at Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

Modi will also lay foundation stone for four-laning of Jammu-Srinagar national highway from Udhampur to Ramban.