NC asks PDP to seek public apology for double standards

Srinagar, May 15 (UNI) The National Conference (NC) today sought a public apology from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a ruling coalition partner in Jammu and Kashmir, for ''double standards'' and acts of ''omissions and commissions'' during its rule.

Addressing a rally at Anantnag, about 50 km from here, NC Provincial President Mehboob Beg criticised the PDP for its silence on the ''self rule formula''.

''The silence is the outcome of bashing from 10, Janpath. The PDP owes an explanation to the people for its double standards on issues such as withdrawing of draconian laws from the state, which were enacted, when its leader Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was the Union Home Minister,'' he said.

Regarding the PDP's demilitarisation slogan, Dr Beg said Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee recently ruled it out and rather suggested reinforcements.

''This clearly shows that the PDP is in complete agreement with New Delhi. It only camouflages itself while speaking in Srinagar,'' he alleged.

Dr Beg called upon the PDP leadership to seek public apology for its ''double standards'' and acts of ''omissions and commissions''.

Reacting on Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Beigh appeal to the militants for declaring a cease-fire, he said the offer should come from the government first.

About the sex scandal, the NC leader said the Mufti Mohammad Sayeed government tried to ''conceal the developments'' in 2004.

''It could have resulted in the doom of the Mufti government then,'' Mr Beg claimed.

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