Terror attacks not to be used to demonise certain community: PDP

Srinagar, Nov 29 (UNI) Urging the Centre to ensure safety of Kashmiris in different states, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti said terror attacks should not be used to demonise a particular community.

Addressing a series of meetings in the central Kashmir district of Badgam, going to polls in the fourth of seven-phases on December 7, she said while the perpetrators of the horrible Mumbai terror carnage have to be brought to justice for the dastardly act, the attacks should not be used to target a particular community.

Ms Mehbooba said terror has no religion as the innocent civilians cutting across religious or ethnic divide have fallen to the bullets of the assailants in Mumbai.

''It would not only be unfair but unjustifiable to use these attacks to demonise or censure a particular community or members of a particular religion,'' she said and added that Kashmiri students and businessmen in various states have, especially, started feeling insecure in the aftermath of these attacks.

The Kashmiris living in different states need to be reassured of their safety and security by the Central government and the respective state governments.

''The terror tactics has widened its tentacles alarmingly and the shocking disclosures uncovered during the investigations into the Malegaon and Samjhuata Express blasts regarding the involvement of Hindu extremist groups in the acts of terror has added a disturbing and dangerous dimension to the scourge,'' Ms Mufti said.

She said in the new scenario of terrorism, it becomes imperative to go deep into all aspects of the muddle with open mind.

Ms Mufti said instead of indulging in blame-game, New Delhi and Islamabad must reiterate their resolve to strengthen the process of reconciliation and mutual understanding, to deter the designs of the elements inimical to peace and stability in the region.

''It would be very unfortunate for the whole region in general and Jammu and Kashmir in particular, if the Mumbai attacks get in the way of the peace process,'' she said and cautioned that hawkish approach will only weaken the forces of peace in the region.

The PDP president said at a time when the sub-continent is face to face with another most critical phase of its history, Jammu and Kashmir needs a leadership and a government that could not only stand up for its people but bring political and economic stability to the State and the region.

''Unlike the National Conference leadership that used to join chorus with the anti-State elements at the crucial occasions to remain clinched to power, the PDP leadership has shown the guts and the courage to stand up for the interests of the State and its people.

She said that having tested all the political leaders in the State, the people would, in the ongoing polls, not allow further bartering of the State's interests and make the right choice while giving mandate.

UNI BAS YSS BDP AS1751