Abdullah said Pakistan’s interference only weakens Kashmir’s case and distracts from the human rights violations occurring under Islamabad’s control. His remarks reignited political debate in the region, prompting Abdullah to assert that Pakistan should “stop killing civilians by Rangers” and “focus on the areas under their control.” While speaking to reporters in Jammu, Abdullah said, "Human rights violations are taking place in Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir. They are doing human rights violations. They should instead focus on correcting the situation in the areas under their control, stop human rights violations and stop the killing of civilians by Rangers.