PDP Criticises Jammu and Kashmir LG for Terminating Employees Over Alleged Terror Links

Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha recently dismissed two government employees due to alleged terror connections. This decision has sparked criticism from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The terminated individuals are Abdul Rehman Naika, a pharmacist, and Zahir Abbas, a teacher. Officials stated that Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution was used for their dismissal following investigations by law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

The PDP leaders have expressed strong disapproval of this action. Waheed Para, a PDP MLA from Pulwama, criticised the silence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on these terminations. "It's shocking how the government acts as judge, jury, and executioner, denying the aggrieved even a proper hearing. Such brazen overreach is unacceptable and must stop. @OmarAbdullah Sahab heads the GAD -- silence on these terminations cannot be justified," Para stated on X.

PDP Leaders Criticise Government Actions

Iltija Mufti, another PDP leader and daughter of PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, also voiced her concerns. She highlighted that the current government remains passive while more employees are dismissed based on mere suspicion. "Only in Kashmir are you guilty until proven otherwise. This criminalisation of livelihoods must stop," she remarked in a post on X.

These dismissals were executed by the General Administration Department (GAD) of Jammu and Kashmir's government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Notably, Abdullah is currently on an Umrah pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The use of Article 311(2)(c) for such terminations has been a recurring practice by the Lieutenant Governor over recent years.

The PDP's objections underline concerns about due process and fairness in these dismissals. They argue that such actions undermine the rights of individuals to a fair hearing before being judged or penalised. The party insists that this approach must be reconsidered to prevent further injustice.

This ongoing issue highlights the tension between maintaining security and ensuring justice for government employees in Jammu and Kashmir. The debate continues as stakeholders call for more transparent processes in handling such sensitive matters.