Examiner News Desk | Srinagar:
Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday defended the socio-educational contribution of Jamaat-e-Islami, advocated political dialogue and restraint, and sought an inquiry into an alleged incident in which a Kulgam resident was reportedly mauled by a bear after being taken towards a forest area by security personnel.
During her visit to the Tarigam area of Kulgam to offer condolences to the family of former Ameer-e-Jamaat Sheikh Ghulam Hassan, Mehbooba Mufti criticised what she described as contradictory policies regarding dialogue and dissent.
Referring to recent remarks reportedly made by the RSS advocating dialogue with Pakistan, Mehbooba said political engagement should not be selective.
“On one hand, the RSS says dialogue with Pakistan is necessary, while on the other, people expressing themselves are being repressed and witch-hunted,” she told reporters.
The former chief minister made the remarks while commenting on recent actions linked to Jamaat-e-Islami and developments following the death of former Jamaat leader Sheikh Ghulam Hassan.
Defending Jamaat-e-Islami’s contribution to society, particularly in the field of education, Mehbooba said the organisation had played a significant role in producing educated youth and professionals in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Jamaat-e-Islami has contributed immensely in the educational field and has produced doctors and engineers,” she said.
Mehbooba also criticised the registration of FIRs against mourners who attended the funeral prayers of Sheikh Ghulam Hassan, saying people should not face legal action merely for expressing grief and solidarity.
“It is unfortunate that mourners have been slapped with FIRs merely for expressing grief and emotions,” she said, urging authorities to exercise restraint and ensure that innocent people are not harassed for participating in funeral gatherings.
During the visit, Mehbooba Mufti was accompanied by PDP workers and local residents who gathered to express solidarity with the bereaved family and pay tributes to the late religious leader.
Separately, the PDP president also raised concern over an alleged incident involving Muhammad Jahangir Malik, a resident of Noorabad in Kulgam district.
She alleged that personnel of the 9 Rashtriya Rifles forcibly took Malik towards a forest and cave area against his wishes, where he was subsequently attacked by a bear.
Mehbooba appealed to the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kulgam, to examine the matter and ascertain the facts surrounding the incident, stating that such allegations required an impartial inquiry and accountability.
