The Union government is considering withdrawing privileges to separatist leaders in Jammu and Kashmir after they turned down an invitation by members of the all-party delegation that visited the state on Sunday to discuss the ongoing violence there. PTI reported that the separatists stand to lose their passports and may have their security reduced. Their bank accounts and all past investigations against them will also come under the Centre’s scanner now.
Officials told the news agency said the withdrawal of privileges is aimed at sending out a message to those inciting violence in the Valley, which has been on the boil since the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on July 8. The all-party delegation is expected to meet again and announce their decision on the unrest in the Valley.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi too reportedly said the government will now take a tough stand when dealing with separatists. Reacting to the rejected invitation, Home Minister Rajnath Singh had said their behaviour did not stand for "Insaniyat, Kashmiriyat and jamuriyat".
Singh said, “I want to clarify that some members of the delegation had gone to meet Hurriyat leaders yesterday in their individual capacity,” Hindustan Times reported. Sitaram Yechuryof the Communist Party of India (Marxist), Sharad Yadav of Janata Dal (United), Jaiprakash Narayan Yadav of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen’s Asaduddin Owaisi and D Raja of Communist Party of India were among those delegation members who reached out to the separatists.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!