Kashmir:– Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, during his visit to the 10th Muharram in Zadibal, Srinagar, criticized the Union Territory (UT) administration for its inability to curb terrorism in Jammu. Abdullah highlighted that recent terrorist attacks have occurred in almost every area of Jammu, contradicting the government’s claims that militancy is on its last leg.
Omar Abdullah expressed his frustration, stating, “In such conditions, we are compelled to ask what the government is doing. They claim terrorism is in its final stage, but we do not see this reality. We hope that steps are taken to halt these killings, and responsibility for controlling the security situation is assumed.”
Abdullah also criticized the Director General of Police (DGP) for engaging in political statements, saying, “The DGP should refrain from politics and focus on law and order. If anyone has made the greatest sacrifices, it is the National Conference. We cannot fight terrorism but can support the police in this battle. The police should do their job, and let us do ours.”
The former Chief Minister condemned the arrest of mourners who had come to participate in the Muharram matam, calling it a targeted action against Muslims. “Why are Muslims being singled out? This does not happen with other communities,” he remarked.
Abdullah also addressed the issue of increased powers to the Lieutenant Governor (LG), expressing his discontent. “We knew this was going to happen because in a UT, the power does not remain with the people. But this is a temporary matter. The Prime Minister, Home Minister, and others have promised that statehood will be restored after elections. We hope statehood is granted before the assembly elections because the UT has failed in every aspect, whether in development or in handling terrorism,” he concluded.
Omar Abdullah’s remarks reflect growing concerns over the security situation in Jammu and the perceived inefficacy of the UT administration in addressing terrorism and restoring peace in the region.
