SRINAGAR: In a damage control move, National Conference (NC) President Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Thursday distanced himself from the controversy surrounding Dr. Karnail Singh, a former BSF Commandant and alleged kingpin in the Jammu and Kashmir recruitment scam, stating he was not aware of Singh’s alleged involvement in the case when he was inducted into the party.
Abdullah according to Srinagar based news gathering agency Kashmir Dot Com said that Singh cannot officially join the NC unless he is exonerated of all charges.
“I wasn’t aware that he is accused in some case. He can’t join NC until he gets a clean chit,” Abdullah stated while addressing reporters in Jammu, according to KDC.
The remarks follow a public backlash after Singh, who is accused of orchestrating the Jammu and Kashmir Police Sub-Inspector (JKPSI) recruitment scam, was welcomed into the NC alongside his supporters in the presence of senior party leaders. Days ago, Abdullah had hailed Singh’s joining as a step toward strengthening the party at the grassroots.
Dr. Karnail Singh, out on bail, has been charged by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) with leaking exam papers for police sub-inspectors, junior engineers, and finance account assistants. His arrest in October 2022, alongside 23 others, brought to light a recruitment scam that compromised exams, led to the cancellation of recruitment lists, and dashed the hopes of thousands of aspirants.
The controversy has prompted critics to question the NC’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Abdullah’s latest remarks indicate the party’s attempt to address these concerns. “Until he proves his innocence, he cannot be associated with the National Conference,” he asserted. (KDC)
