Jammu & Kashmir: Security of 919 'Undeserving Persons' Including 22 Separatist Leaders Withdrawn Since Governor's Rule Imposed, Says MHA
Among those whose security has been revoked include PDP leader Wahid Parra and former IAS officer Shah Faesal
New Delhi, April 5: Since the imposition of Governor's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir, the administration has withdrawn the security cover of 919 persons, including 22 separatist leaders, said the statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Friday. The move has freed up 2,768 police personnel and 389 security vehicles.
Governor's rule in the state was imposed on June 20, 2018 -- after the BJP walked out of the coalition government headed by PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti. Subsequently, Governor Satya Pal Malik took over the state affairs, leading to a sharp crackdown on separatist elements in the Valley. Riots, Protests in Srinagar Jail Over Shifting of Inmates, Temporary Shelter Set Ablaze.
"List of persons whose security cover has been withdrawn by State Govt includes 22 separatist leaders giving a clear message to those who are involved in anti-national activities. It has resulted in availability of 2,768 Police personnel and 389 vehicles," said the MHA statement.
The Home Ministry said that it had directed the Governor's administration to adequately use the scarce police resources in J&K.
"It was observed by Centre that many undeserving persons managed to get security cover resulting in lack of State police resources for public at large," the statement added.
Each of the security withdrawals were reviewed on case-to-case basis, the MHA claimed, adding that the decision to revoke the police cover was solely based upon merits of the case.
Among the separatist leaders whose security has been withdrawn include JKLF chief Yasin Malik, Hurriyat Moderate chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and veteran secessionist leader Shabbir Shah.
Among other prominent voices whose security has been revoked include PDP leader Wahid Parra and former IAS officer Shah Faesal, who recently launched his own political party.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 05, 2019 04:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).