If Mirwaiz is anti-national, why Z+ security?
Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Mar 12: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti today strongly criticized the central government for banning Mirwaiz Umar Farooq’s Awami Action Committee (AAC) and Masroor Abbas Ansari’s Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), calling the move contradictory to its decision to provide Mirwaiz with Z-plus security.
Addressing a press conference here, Mufti condemned the ban on the Mirwaiz-led AAC and Ansari’s J&K Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM). She urged New Delhi to end its “muscular policy” in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that such actions would only worsen the situation in the Valley. “It is not right. Everyone knows that Mirwaiz Umar Farooq is himself a victim. His father, Maulvi Farooq, who was martyred, founded this party,” she said.
The PDP Chief pointed out the inconsistency in the government’s stance, stating that while Umar Farooq is granted high-security cover, his organization faces restrictions. “I do not understand how long this muscular policy will last. It seems like pressure tactics-perhaps he refused to comply with certain demands, leading to these actions against him. I do not know, but it may be a possibility,” she said.
The PDP leader called for a shift in approach, emphasizing the need for reconciliation instead of repression. “People need a healing touch, not suppression. When such a major action is taken against a religious leader, it further wounds the hearts of Kashmiris,” she said.
Mufti also criticized the silence of the ruling National Conference, arguing that it has contributed to worsening the situation. “Earlier, Jamaat-e-Islami was banned under the BJP. Now, under an elected government, we expected a different approach, but injustice continues while the ruling party remains quiet,” she said.
She questioned why Umar Farooq was given Z-plus security if he was considered a threat. “If he was anti-national, why provide him protection? This contradiction exposes the reality of the government’s policy in Kashmir,” she said.
Mufti warned that such measures could deepen the crisis and urged authorities to rethink their strategy. “The situation is becoming more serious. The government must act wisely rather than enforce bans and suppression,” she said.
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