Srinagar/IBNS, March 12 -- Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has demanded a thorough investigation into an attempted assassination during a wedding ceremony in Jammu, saying the incident reflects a deeply troubling atmosphere of hatred in the country.

The 88-year-old leader, who heads the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, spoke publicly for the first time since a man allegedly fired at him during a private function on the night of Wednesday.

Abdullah said the climate in India had become increasingly hostile, warning that voices advocating communal harmony and secular values were gradually losing space.

The incident occurred at a wedding function held at Royal Park in the Greater Kailash area of Jammu.

Accord...