Srinagar: Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy Farooq Abdullah on Monday said his remarks made in Gujarat were secular and meant no disrespect to Islam.
In a statement issued here, Dr Abdullah said, "On a recent visit to Gujarat, I had an occasion to make a speech in which I highlighted the essential unity of all Indians and also categorically emphasized that no religion preaches hatred. I had also mentioned that the month of Ramadan is the holiest month because it is during this month that the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad."
"I have seen a number of press reports where my secular and humanistic remarks have been hopelessly distorted. I had never claimed that the Holy Quran was revealed to anyone other than the Prophet Mohammad (SAW). I am dismayed at this inaccurate reporting more so when the comments being reported upon sought to emphasize harmony between religions and equality of mankind. I wish to categorically re-assert that I had at no point of time made any reference to the Holy Quran being revealed to anybody other than Prophet Mohammad. While clarifying the above, I also wish to urge fellow citizens to remember the essential oneness of man and equality of all religions," he added.
Hardline separatist leader, Syed Ali Geelani had taken strong exception to Dr Abdullah's statements made during his Gujarat visit.
There were some sporadic protests in north Kashmir's Baramulla town over the statements.
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