Jammu, Mar 31 (KNS): Legislators from Jammu and Kashmir, led by the National Conference (NC) and supported by the Congress, on Tuesday raised their voices strongly in the legislative Assembly over the withdrawal of security cover, terming it "unfortunate" and a threat to the lives of mainstream political leaders.
Raising the issue during the ongoing session, the lawmakers, as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), alleged that the decision to withdraw escorts was taken unilaterally without any prior notice.
"This is a sensitive state. Even if the situation has improved, risks to life remain, particularly for mainstream parties and leaders. Across the board, there is no discrimination. Everyone runs a risk," Congress legislator Nizamuddin Bhat said while supporting the NC leaders.
He asserted that providing security is a state's obligation, not a matter of gratitude. "When there are security concerns, security is provided by the state. It is a commitment to protect its citizens, especially those with public representation. We treat every life at risk as equal," he added.
The legislator alleged a pattern in the security review, claiming that protection was withdrawn at a time when representatives were entitled to additional cover during the Assembly session.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelHe cited the example of his party president, who was told by a senior superintendent of police that it was due to elections in other states of India.
Citing his own case, the Congress MLA from Bandipora, Nizamuddin Bhat, said his constituency was among the most vulnerable areas, yet he had no house guards, while a leader from another party had seven security personnel at his residence.
"What is the state doing? Are we not part of this country? Don't we have constitutional rights?" he asked.
Demanding a strong resolution, he said security should be restored immediately. "Mainstream parties standing with the flag of India tolerate hostility. Will you empty their walls?" he said.
The Speaker observed that the matter fell within the domain of the Home Ministry, but the protesting legislators insisted the House must intervene to ensure the protection of elected representatives. (KNS)