Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday asked the authorities not to impose “collective punishment” on the people of Kashmir in the aftermath of the Delhi blast, saying only those found guilty should be punished, not an entire population.
“Don’t give collective punishment to all Kashmiris. If anyone did wrong, punish him, but don’t treat all equally. Those responsible for the Delhi blast should be punished,” Mehbooba told reporters after visiting the residence of Inspector Israr Ahmad Shah, who was killed in the Nowgam police station blast.
Calling the Nowgam blast one of the most tragic incidents in recent times, Mehbooba said the government owes an explanation to the families of the victims and to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“We need answers about the Nowgam police station blast—how it happened, why it happened, and who will be held accountable,” she said. “Those who were killed should be taken care of by the government. Their families must not be left alone to suffer”.
Meanwhile, CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has expressed deep concern over the “environment of harassment” being faced by students and labourers working in different parts of the country, which must be stopped.
The situation has created fear among the younger generation studying in different parts of India. Students “should not be dragged into it,” adding that the country must ensure a sense of security for them instead of exposing them to intimidation or suspicion, Tarigami stated.
“Such an atmosphere is not favourable for a proper and conducive environment, especially when young people require reassurance, stability, and confidence to continue their studies and work. While the space for those responsible for such heinous terrorist acts must shrink, serious measures need to be taken to ensure that innocent citizens do not feel distressed and humiliated”.
“Efforts to win over hearts and minds, particularly of the youth, are essential. Pushing innocent people to the wall has never helped achieve anything fruitful. Desperation is always counterproductive, he said, adding that past experiences in conflict situations have shown that indiscriminate actions only deepen alienation”.