Srinagar, Aug 14 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly condemned the recent attack in which individuals were injured, questioning how such an incident could occur despite claims of enhanced Z-plus security and asserting that violence has no place in a democracy.
Speaking to reporters, as per news agency, CM Omar Abdullah said such attacks should not take place and recalled that a similar incident had occurred in Amritsar earlier, following which assurances were given regarding enhanced security.
He questioned the effectiveness of the security arrangements, saying that despite Z-plus security, the individuals were attacked again and had to be shifted to hospital for treatment.
“There is no need for such things in a democracy. If you are angry with someone, you can express your anger in an election,” Omar said, stressing that attacks are dangerous for the democratic system.
CM Reiterates Stand on Indus Waters
Omar Abdullah also reiterated his concerns regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, saying that Jammu and Kashmir had historically faced restrictions in utilising its water resources.
He said the region had not been able to fully utilise its rivers for drinking water, navigation and hydropower projects, and maintained that the people of Jammu and Kashmir had a strong claim over their water resources.
Referring to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, he said it should remain cancelled so that Jammu and Kashmir can utilise its rivers and water resources in its own interest.
Says Jantar Mantar Protest Was “Just the Beginning”
On the issue of political demands and the possibility of a long march to Leh, Omar Abdullah said several options were being discussed and indicated that future programmes would be decided internally.
He said reports of a proposed long march had reached him and described such a move as a positive development.
The Chief Minister also referred to the promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the restoration of the region’s political status, questioning why what he termed a “super promise” had not yet been fulfilled.
“Jantar Mantar was not the end of the story. It was the beginning,” Omar said, adding that he would continue raising the issue and would not remain silent.
He said discussions on the matter would continue and that further steps would be considered at an appropriate time.
