Kulgam, May 19: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday criticized action against Jamaat-e-Islami and called for dialogue and political engagement, while also raising concerns over alleged repression, FIRs against mourners, and a reported incident involving a man from Kulgam who was allegedly mauled by a bear after being taken towards a forested area by security personnel.
During her interaction and condolence visit, Mehbooba Mufti questioned what she described as contradictory approaches toward dialogue and dissent.
Referring to recent remarks attributed to the RSS favoring dialogue with Pakistan, the former chief minister said political engagement should not be selective.
“On one hand RSS says dialogue is necessary with Pakistan and on the other hand people who express themselves are being repressed and witch-hunted,” Mehbooba said.
The PDP chief made the remarks while commenting on actions linked to Jamaat-e-Islami and developments following the death of former Jamaat-e-Islami chief Sheikh Ghulam Hassan.
The issue assumes political significance as debate over engagement, dissent, and the treatment of socio-religious organizations continues in Jammu and Kashmir.
Mehbooba defended Jamaat-e-Islami’s contribution to society, particularly in the field of education.
She said the organization had played a role in producing educated youth and professionals.
“Jamaat-e-Islami has contributed in the educational field and created doctors and engineers,” she said.
Mehbooba also visited the residence of late Sheikh Ghulam Hassan to offer condolences to the bereaved family.
Describing him as a respected Islamic scholar and former Jamaat-e-Islami chief, she said his funeral drew large participation from people across the region.
The PDP president criticized the registration of FIRs against mourners, saying it was unfortunate that people allegedly faced legal action merely for expressing grief and emotions during funeral gatherings.
“It is unfortunate that mourners have been slapped with FIRs merely for expressing grief and emotions,” she said.
Separately, Mehbooba raised a humanitarian concern involving a resident of Noorabad in Kulgam district.
She referred to Muhammad Jahangir Malik of Noorabad and alleged that personnel of 9 Rashtriya Rifles forcibly took him towards a jungle and cave area against his wishes, where he was subsequently mauled by a bear.
Mehbooba appealed to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kulgam to look into the matter and ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.
The PDP chief said such allegations required impartial examination and accountability. [KNT]
