Misuse of Public Safety Act undermines democratic governance
Srinagar, Sept 11: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that using the Public Safety Act (PSA) against a sitting legislator is wrong and sends a dangerous message to the public.
Speaking to reporters, he said that any concerns regarding an MLA’s conduct should be addressed through proper channels. Detaining a legislator without following due process undermines democratic governance, he added.
Omar said the PSA, which provides for preventive detention, should not be applied to elected representatives. “If someone has a complaint about their behaviour, you can raise it with the Assembly Secretariat or speak to the Speaker. But using PSA against an MLA is wrong,” he said.
The CM further said that while it is being said that everything is fine in the region, the environment is stable, and people are happy as a new phase begins, the reality is that strict measures are being imposed repeatedly. “Whenever you look at the situation, you see nothing other than strictness,” he added.
On the support being provided to the detained MLA, he said that his government and party are ready to assist in the legal process. “I met his father and spoke with him. I assured him that we are ready to give any help from our side,” he said.
Omar advised the Aam Aadmi Party and its members to appoint a lawyer familiar with the PSA law from within Kashmir rather than seeking help from outside. “They should not bring a lawyer from abroad. They should take a lawyer from here who knows the law of PSA. If needed, we are ready to give any help,” he said.
The Chief Minister further said that he had fought a similar case himself. “In 2020, when the PSA case was filed against me, I fought the battle in court by appointing a lawyer from here. We are ready to help in any way,” he said.
Omar said authorities should consider the impact of such actions on public trust. “This is not right. The message that will go to the people is very wrong. Those who are doing this should think about their actions,” he added.
When asked about the recent decision by Railways to start two parcel vans to transport apples from Budgam to Delhi, Omar said he had been in regular contact with the Railway Minister and the Railway Department, as well as with officials from the Agricultural Production Department and local growers.
“I am not one of those who highlight these things repeatedly in the media. I was in contact with the Railway Minister privately, and my Secretariat officers were in constant touch. Today, it is possible that two rakes are being used for cargo. This has become our compulsion,” he said.
The CM said that while road transport should continue where required, cargo trains should operate regularly from Kashmir. “We would like these refrigerated container trains to run continuously, so that our fruits and other essential goods can be sent out by rail,” he added.
