Mufti pained over land transfer controversy,demands its cancellation

Srinagar, Jun 21 (UNI) Demanding cancellation of transfer of forest land to Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), Peoples Democratic Party Patron (PDP) patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said the state legislature should have a re-look at the legislation that led to its creation in 2000.

''I am pained at the turn of events and would advise caution to all the stake holders in states ecology, environment and cultural identity as also the government and the SASB,'' Mr Sayeed said in a statement here.

Expressing grave concern over the situation arising out of the controversy generated by the diversion of some land to SASB and the unseemly remarks made by the Board, the former Chief Minister said the state government should forthwith cancel the order diverting land for use by the SASB.

Mr Mufti said, ''We also need to have a re-look at the desirability of having a separate Board for Amar Nath Yatra which has generated controversies more than the amenities for the ''yatries.'' Therefore the state legislature should have a re-look at the legislation that led to the creation of SASB in 2000.

He said the controversy over diversion of land to SASB has drawn Kashmir in to an unprecedented and dangerous polarisation over a matter of faith and a pilgrimage that has been conducted historically by the people of Kashmir and the state government with distinction and care.

He said it would be dangerous to allow the situation to drift any further.

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