Salman Rushdie on Akhilesh, Omar boycotting him at Delhi event

New Delhi:  At the India Today Conclave, Salman Rushdie was asked about his opinion on politicians who boycotted the event because of him. The list allegedly includes Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav and his counterpart in Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah.

"Sad that leaders supposed to be the next generation are behaving in old-fashioned way. I hope they will grow up," Mr Rushdie said at the event. He also said, "I am impressed with my effect. Really, they're that scared of me?"

On Twitter, Mr Abdullah responded, "Miss the conclave I'm afraid of an author. Come to Delhi & a communal clash breaks out in Jammu I'm incompetent. Honestly I'm glad I missed...I had a situation with the BJP VHP Bajrang Dal & others itching to inflame passions so I have no regrets about the decision to stay in Jammu...Plus Salman Rushdie doesn't even know I exist so do you really think he gives a toss whether I was there or not?? Get real :-)"

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