NEW DELHI: Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti has questioned the “indiscriminate crackdown” carried out by several security agencies in the aftermath of Pahalgam terror attack. In a letter to LG Manoj Sinha on Tuesday, Mufti claimed that a “collective punishment” was being imposed on the people with “over 3,000 arrests and nearly 100 Public Safety Act (PSA) detentions”.
“Such numbers are alarming and don’t reflect justice but rather a collective form of punishment. This approach not only risks alienating families and communities but also begs the question: where will all this lead us to?” she questioned.
While highlighting the unprecedented response by the Kashmiris against terrorism, she said, “However, the response from various security agencies that has followed appears less like a focused investigation and more like a sweeping and indiscriminate crackdown.”
With the Amarnath Yatra approaching, Mufti urged the LG to intervene, calling for an end to the ongoing policy of arrests and punitive measures, and appealed for the release of innocent individuals. “With the Shri Amarnath Yatra approaching, I humbly request your urgent intervention to put an end to this policy of arrests, punitive measures and ensure release of innocents. Let the people of Kashmir breathe easy and prepare to welcome the Yatris with the warmth and hospitality they are well recognized for,” she said.
The terror attack that took place on April 22 killed 26 people attracting a series of economic crackdowns against Pakistan by India. The latter suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed its borders and cut its trade ties with Pakistan. The neighbouring has, however, maintained its innocence and asked for an “independent investigation” into the matter.