P Chidambaram's statement on Kashmir reflection of Congress mentality to divide India: Smriti Irani

Union minister Smriti Irani on Saturday said she was 'shocked and disgusted' at former finance minister P Chidambaram's remarks about 'breaking union of India into pieces'.

Chidambaram said, "My interactions in Jammu and Kashmir led me to the conclusion that when they ask for 'Azadi', most people want autonomy". Trying to sort of find a middle-line to solve the Kashmir problem, P Chidambaram said that government must consider areas to give autonomy to J&K. He said, " It will remain a part of India but will have larger powers as promised under Article 370".

"Although I must admit that I am not surprised by Chidambaram's statement, as it reflects the Congress' mentality," Irani said while speaking to news agency ANI.

She also lashed out at Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, saying that he supported students of Jawaharlal Nehru University, who allegedly said that they they would break India into tiny pieces. "What is the message Cong is trying to give, that at their doorstep of political gain they are willing to sacrifice nationhood?" Irani asked.

The minister also added that the talks of 'azadi' was on a land that gave us Sardar Patel. "Patel gave his life to make sure India was under one constitution," Irani said.

#WATCH: Union Minister Smriti Irani reacts on P Chidambaram's "When people of J&K ask for ‘Azadi’, most people want autonomy" statement pic.twitter.com/tYbbrl7yRq

— ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2017