Srinagar, Feb 21 (KNS): Former chief minister and senior National Conference Thursday questioned the silence by Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the attacks on Kashmir after the Pulwama incident.
“Initially we thought that there were some misguided people and taking advantage of the situation. But it seems they have a blessing of the Centre,” he claiming, while asking why Prime Minister was silent on Kashmiri being targeted in various parts of country.
According to KNS correspondent, Omar said that they got reports Kashmiris have been attacked in Dehradun, West Bengal, Rajasthan, and various other parts of the country.
“Our children go outside for studies to make their bright future. But they are being attacked and threatened despite having nothing to do with politics,” Omar, the former chief minister told a presser here.
“Are we targeted for being only Muslim majority state in the country? Why are we being blamed and doubted?” he asked.
According to KNS correspondent Omar was flanked by senior NC leaders, Ali Mohammad Sagar, and Nasir Aslam Wani.
He claimed that it was systematic to target Kashmiris and a convenient way because PM has talked about “muh tod jawab”.
“Such a reply is not possible in current situation as Pakistan has said they will retaliate.”
He asked Kashmiris to respond the situation wisely, which would not further complicate the situation.
He said that governors of few states have called for economic boycott with Kashmiris, withdrawal of Article 370, and don’t go for Amarnath Yatra. “We expected that these statements will be condemned by PM. He had said at Lal Qila that Kashmiris need hugs, neither bullets, and abuses. He did not reject governors’ statements. Even Home Minister did not speak that such things won’t be allowed,” he said.
He said when an attack took place in Chatisgarh on CRPF men, there was no selective targeting. “No governor gave such statements then why are only Kashmiris being targeted. When Mumbai attack took place, the then Prime Minister asked people to stay calm.”
He also questioned the silence of the opposition Congress party.
He however appreciated Punjab and West Bengal chief ministers for taking abrupt action against those who attacked Kashmiris. He also praised Sikh community and some Hindus for coming to the rescue of Kashmiri Muslims. “But the political leadership of the country failed us despite we don’t support violence and terrorism.”
Omar asked Governor Satya Pal Malik to ensure security of Kashmiri students forced to return home in the wake of threats.
“When we talk of dialogue (to resolve Kashmir issue), we are branded anti-national.”
Over withdrawal of security, he said, ““I am not aware of anybody misusing security. “Ramification of this withdrawn will have fallout in the future. It is no secret that two separatists, Moulvi Umar Farooq and Abdul Gani Lone were killed by militants. Therefore provision of security to them (separatists) was consideration of various governments.”
The NC vice president said the withdrawal of security to mainstream political workers and office bearers is a retrograde step that will only weaken political activity in the valley. “We are being told to prepare for Parliamentary and Assembly polls and on the other hand we don’t deserve protection of the state. Such steps will only hamper the political space here,” he said.
Omar questioned the step taken by the Governor administration and asked him to reconsider it.
“I would like to ask Governor to reconsider this step. If it is not revisited we will approach the courts to seek files and to intervene,” Omar added. (KNS)