People insecure in catch and kill atmosphere in Kashmir: NC

Srinagar, Oct 22 (UNI) The main opposition National Conference (NC) in Jammu and Kashmir today criticised the Congress-PDP coalition government for ''alarming increase'' in human rights violations in the state in the recent past, saying nobody feels secure in this atmosphere of ''catch and kill''.

''It is painful that human rights violations are alarmingly on the rise in the state. Nobody feels secure in this atmosphere of catch and kill. It is surprising to see that those at the helm of affairs are acting as mute spectators,'' said senior NC leader Abdul Rahim Rather in a statement here while condemning in strongest terms the alleged killing of Mohammad Maqbool Dar by Army at Mohadpora, Pakherpora in Badgam district yesterday.

He said the hollow slogans of protection of human rights abuses could hardly assuage the hurt feelings of the people.

Mr Rather, who is also the leader of the opposition in the state Assembly, said it was the primary responsibility of the government to protect the life and property of the people.

''The government which fails to discharge this basic duty has no right to rule. Everybody in the state is feeling insecure. It appears that things are going out of control and the government has no guts and capability to control the situation,'' he added.

Mr Rather claimed that Dar, 20, was the only son of his aged parents, the sole bread earner of the family and absolutely innocent. ''It is unfortunate that those responsible for the protection of life and property of the people should indulge in such heinous and gruesome murders. This unjustified and totally uncalled act of security forces has sent shock waves not only in the area but in the entire state,'' he said.

Demanding a time-bound judicial enquiry into the incident, the NC leader said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad have time and again assured the people of the state that there would be zero tolerance far human rights violations.

''Here is a test case for them to act and prove their words. The people of the state in general and near and dear ones of the deceased are eagerly waiting to see how far the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister believe in what they say,'' he added.

Mr Rather impressed upon the people not to take the law into their hands and express their feelings in peaceful manner.

UNI AG MIR BST1836