PDP-BJP Alliance in Jammu & Kashmir Shaky Over Kathua Gangrape & Murder

Srinagar, April 13: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, on Friday, issued an ultimatum to its ally in the state government, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to sack ministers who have voiced alleged support for the rapists. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is in alliance with the BJP in the state government.

Earlier, PDP leadership had sought all its ministers, legislators and senior leaders to be available, in person, for a crucial meeting in Srinagar on April 14. Will the discussions take place in the context of the (PDP) party snapping ties with the BJP? It is unclear at the moment, but the politics in the region has taken an ugly turn, given the backdrop of the uproar over the gang-rape of an 8-year-old girl, in Kathua.

Responding to the statement, the BJP seemingly treated cautiously on the sensitive issue. In its reply to J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, the BJP said that the party will reprimand the ministers who had voiced their thoughts which were pro-rapists.

Earlier in the day, Mehbooba Mufti’s brother Tassaduq Mufti had alleged that both, PDP and BJP were partners in crime for which the people of Kashmir will have to pay with their blood.

PDP has downplayed the comment made by Tassaduq Mufti, who is also a minister in J & K government. PDP said, “There’s no rift and the coalition will continue.”

There is a widespread unrest seen in the country in the context of an 8-year-old girl being gang-raped and eventually strangulated to death. J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti had, on April 12, assured the people that they will bring a new law which will make the death penalty mandatory for the people who rape minors.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 13, 2018 12:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).