Jammu flare-up threatens integration of J-K : PDP

Srinagar, Aug 2 (UNI) The peoples Democratic Party (PDP) today said the agitation in Jammu, having assumed an anti-Kashmiri character with provocative and mindless overtones, is bringing the state at the verge of disintegration.

If not controlled, the agitation would plunge the state into a communal holocaust, PDP General Secretary Nizamuddin Bhat said Holding responsible the communal elements, Mr Bhat said the attacks on weaker sections and minorities smacks a conspiracy to change the demographic character of Jammu region to the convenience of rabid communalists.

Similarly the economic blockade forced against the traders and labourers of the Valley and attacks on Jammu-based employees from the Kashmir region speak volumes on how the atmosphere was vitiated with the deliberate design of a showdown through vandalism and use of muscle power he said.

Mr Bhat said in this whole episode, the role of local administration has been criminally partial and rule of law has been allowed to be muzzled by the hooligans who did not even spare the places of worship and personal property of a section from Kashmir.

Warning the authorities about the dire consequences of the selective attacks on people of a community and a region, he said it would be too late for the Governor administration to retrieve the situation if the unbridled vandalists were allowed to hold law at ransom.

Describing the reactions from Kashmir region to the unfortunate incidents in Jammu as natural, he appreciated the role of the Kashmiri leadership which was showing utmost restraint and added that it was the only silver lining in the whole flare up which was holding the state together in the current scenario.

Mr Bhat made a fervent appeal to the political parties across board to rise to the occasion and uphold centuries' old brotherhood and amity.

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