Query on separatists deleted, J-K BJP MLA alleges 'cover-up'

Jammu, Apr 7: A Jammu and Kashmir BJP MLA has alleged that the state government was trying to "hide the information" on funds spent by it on the security of separatist leaders as he claimed that his query in this regard was deleted despite being listed in the business of the Legislative Assembly.

"I had put a question on the details of security cover of separatist leaders and money spent by the state government on their security annually. But my question was deleted and no answer was given to me," BJP MLA Rajesh Gupta told PTI today.

Gupta's question (AQ No.867) figured in the Assembly's business list for yesterday. "Will the government please state the details of the separatist leaders provided security cover, especially the vehicles, and the 'Z' category security as also the expenditure borne annually on such facilities giving also the reasons for extending such facilities to them," the query read. Gupta's party is a partner in the J-K government led by PDP leader Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

The alliance, cobbled together after days of negotiations between the two parties, has seen a fair amount of controversy after government formation.

"When the question is listed in the business of the House, it is a must for the government to answer it. They cannot delete it. The government failed to give the answer because they want to hide the information about separatists," Gupta said.

"I have been seeking answers from the Assembly and the government, but nobody is forthcoming on it," he claimed. The secretary of J&K Assembly, Mohd Ramzan, said that the answer could not be prepared by the government and that was why it was deleted by the Speaker. Ramzan refused any further comment on the matter.

PTI