National Conference President Farooq Abdullah defended the house arrest of political leaders supporting a student protest in Srinagar, stating they seek "turmoil" rather than development. He asserted the government's action was justified to prevent disruption to Jammu and Kashmir's progress. This stance contrasts with some within his own party and the PDP, who criticized the detentions as unjustified and a violation of democratic rights, warning of potential unrest if youth are pushed too far.