National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah said on Saturday that the local political leaders have adapted to the curbs put on their movement after August 2019, but such measures cannot weaken their connect with the masses.
He was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a party convention in Ramban district.
“This is not a new thing (restrictions on movement of NC leaders and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti). After August 5, 2019, it is a regular affair and we have become habitual of it but we have also learned how to dodge and fight back and we will continue to do so,” he said.
Omar expressed concern over the militant activity in the region, saying terrorism is rearing its head even in the area which had been declared militancy-free sometime back.
He said that the Centre’s tall claims on an improved security were belied by terror attacks in Shopian, Rajouri, and Poonch.
“We are witnessing militancy in areas which were declared free of militancy. The attacks are unimaginable and if such attacks are taking place, it is the failure of the government,” he said.
Omar also referred to a recruitment scam last year which is presently under a CBI probe.
He said that the government must ascertain for how long the people have been living in the J&K before they are extended the benefits of the scheme.
“We ask it to set a cutoff date of August 5, 2019 and exclude those from the scheme who came to the Union Territory after that date,” he said.
Omar said the National Conference has its hopes pinned on the Supreme Court which is going to hear a bunch of petitions challenging Article 370 abrogation from next month.
“We are hopeful that citizens of J&K will get justice,” he said.
