People's Democracy

JAMMU & KASHMIR

Govt Must Protect People�s Life & Dignity

IN a statement issued from Srinagar on July 1, 2009, by its Jammu and Kashmir state secretary Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has expressed deep anguish over the killing of two youths in an episode of firing by the security forces in Baramulla. The party has strongly condemned this firing, adding that such incidents went against the peace-building efforts in the state.

The continuous uncertainty prevailing in the aftermath of the ghastly Shopian incident, and the violence and civilian casualties thereafter, have cast a dark shadows over the state.

The statement expressed deep grief and sorrow over the use of disproportionate force against the protesters and subsequent civilian killings in Baramulla, and the disappearance of a 15-year old boy Basharat Ahmad Bhat in Larkipora Doru, allegedly in army custody. It said the government must immediately rise to the occasion and uncover the truth behind such deplorable incidents. It must identify the wrongdoers and punish them according to the law of the land, the statement adding that any person in uniform indulging in traumatising the people must be taken to task and that the government must make no compromises on this score.

The CPI(M) is of the opinion that the prevalent situation in the state is ominous for peace and reconciliatory efforts being made at various levels on the Kashmir issue. Its statement he said adding that the state government must realise its obligations at this hour and protect the life and dignity of the people.

The party demanded that the government must talk to the people rather than trying to suppress their anger through harsh measures, the CPI(M) statement stressed. It also cautioned the people that the political vultures are trying to prey on the troubles of the people, that some forces are hell bent upon exploiting their emotions for petty political gains, and therefore the people must remain on guard against such unscrupulous elements. (INN)