New Delhi: Congress on October 17 reacted sharply to the decision of Farooq Abdullah not to remain caretaker Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir any longer, saying by this action he was "forcing" Governor's Rule on the state "which was wrong".

"It is astonishing that Abdullah has suddenly decided to leave immediately. Unfortunately, if he physically leaves, there is no option but to have Governor's Rule. Such a sudden departure clearly indicates that Abdullah wants to force Governor's Rule on the state which is wrong on his part," party spokesman Abhishek Singhvi said.

He said at the outset that it was normal practice for a defeated Chief Minister to remain caretaker till a new government is formed.

Assailing Abdullah over the move, Singhvi said it has come at a time when Congress and PDP were holding talks on formation of coalition government and the Governor had allowed time October 21.

PTI