Kulgam, Feb 05: Iltija Mufti, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader and media advisor to former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, on Wednesday accused the National Conference (NC) of remaining silent on youth detentions following the Kulgam attack.
“NC ke munh mein dahi jam gaya,” she said while speaking to reporters in Behibagh, Kulgam, after visiting the home of slain ex-Army man Manzoor Ahmad Wagay to offer condolences.
Iltija demanded an inquiry into his broad daylight killing. “I demand a probe. How did it happen? Who did it? Why are the culprits still absconding? I also ask the NC-led administration—why is it silent? Over the last 24 hours, young boys have been picked up in Kulgam, Budgam, and Ganderbal. Are they all militants? You are treating everyone with suspicion, which is absolutely wrong.”
Shed added, “Who brought you (NC) to power with such a heavy majority? Why aren’t you speaking now? Just two months ago, our young boys were jailed under the PSA and UAPA, and no one spoke up. Now, with 50 MLAs in government, why is there silence?”
The PDP leader said that justice should be given to the youth. She claimed that elders in the village told her that many boys had been detained. “If militancy has ended, why create this atmosphere of fear? The government must take responsibility,” she said.
“Late Wagay was the sole breadwinner, leaving behind four teenage daughters and a young son. The government must not just offer lip service but ensure meaningful support. The Deputy Commissioner visited, which I appreciate, but more needs to be done,” she said.
On the alleged detentions, Mufti said, “Does the administration want to turn Jammu and Kashmir into a prison? Arbitrary arrests are spreading fear. Elders tell me they cannot sleep at night due to this situation. The NC government, with 50 MLAs, should be asked why so many youths are being detained. The same youth who voted for them are now being punished.”
