Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 17: As former RAW chief AS Dulat’s new book The Chief Minister and the Spy sparks political controversy, readers in Srinagar are rushing to bookstores to grab a copy, hoping to uncover what lies between the lines.
The controversy erupted over Dulat’s claim that National Conference (NC) patron and former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah told him in a private conversation that if New Delhi had consulted him, he could have helped pass the abrogation of Article 370 in the Assembly. The revelation has sparked widespread debate over the accuracy of the claim and its political implications in the Valley.
Abdullah, responding to the allegation, dismissed it as a “figment of imagination” and denied ever making such a statement. Dulat later clarified in an interview with a news agency that Abdullah never supported the abrogation of Article 370 and was, in fact, deeply hurt by it. He also said the former Chief Minister was never taken into confidence by the Centre.
As discussions intensify across political circles, social media, and newsrooms, the book has become a hot topic in the region. Bookstores in Srinagar report a sudden spike in demand. “We received the book around 12:30 pm yesterday. Initially, the response was average, but once the controversy hit TV and newspapers, sales picked up. We sold about 40 copies today alone,” said a bookstore owner in the city.
The bookseller said a wide range of people-from students to intellectuals-are seeking the book. “People are talking about it everywhere-on social media, in universities, and political circles. It’s rare for a book to create this kind of buzz,” said the bookseller.
Curious readers are eager to find out what was actually said between the former spy chief and the politician. “This book shines a light on political conversations that shape our region but remain hidden from public view. It’s fascinating to read what goes on behind the curtains,” said a reader browsing at a local store.
Another reader said, “Such books expose how politicians fool people with false promises while striking deals behind closed doors. If what’s written is true, everyone should read it and understand the reality of politics here.”
While leaders argue about the book, The Chief Minister and the Spy has grabbed people’s attention in Kashmir. True or not, Dulat’s claims have put the spotlight on how major decisions are often made in secret.
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