SRINAGAR: PDP leader Iltija Mufti today launched a scathing attack on the administration over the recent killings of three civilians in Kathua district and accused authorities of imposing selective travel restrictions on political figures.
Speaking to reporters, Iltija alleged that she was barred from meeting the families of the victims in Billawar, while BJP leaders faced no such hindrance.
โI intended to visit Billawar to extend my condolences to the grieving families, but the police stopped me. PDP leaders are prevented from going, yet BJP leaders like Sunil Sharma have free accessโwhy this double standard?โ she questioned.
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The victimsโYogesh (32), Darshan (40), and Varun (14), reportedly cousinsโwere found dead in a river in the Inchhu forests of Kathuaโs Malhar area on Saturday evening. A police official confirmed their identities but refrained from revealing further details.
Mufti also raised concerns over what she described as the worsening security situation in Kathua, alleging that youth were being mistreated in custody, including an individual named Makhan Din.
โThe situation in Kathua has deteriorated. Communal tensions are escalating, and young boys are being detained under PSA and UAPA. Who is responsible for maintaining law and order in Kathua and Billawar?โ she asked.
Demanding an urgent probe, she called on the Lieutenant Governor and Director General of Police to take immediate action.
โI appeal to the LG and DG to ensure a swift and fair investigation. We wanted to visit the family of the 14-year-old victim in Billawar, but we were denied permission,โ she said.
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Mufti also linked the controversy surrounding the recent Gulmarg fashion event to administrative lapses, questioning how it was held without government oversight.
โTourism falls under the Chief Ministerโs jurisdiction. How did he allow this to take place? How was he unaware? Reports of alcohol being openly consumed at the event have also surfaced,โ she alleged.
Further, she accused the National Conference-led administration of turning a blind eye to these developments.
โAll of this is unfolding right under their watch. How can they claim ignorance?โ Iltija remarked.
