Srinagar: The ruling National Conference (NC) in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday criticized certain provisions of the three bills introduced by Union Minister Amit Shah, aimed at allowing the arrest of the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and ministers on serious criminal charges for 30 days. NC described these provisions as “draconian” and expressed hope that the government would address opposition concerns.
“Some provisions of the bills are draconian and will be opposed tooth and nail,” said NC state spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar, calling for a “relook” at the legislation. He expressed hope that the government would heed the “genuine concerns of the opposition” and act rationally. “We hope democratic principles will not be allowed to erode further,” he added.
Dar noted that the bills are headed to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) and said, “We hope the concerns raised by the opposition will also be addressed there.”
Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Tariq Karra accused the bills of reflecting the “authoritarian character” of the ruling dispensation at the Centre. “Rather than strengthening the states and restoring statehood to J-K, they have demonstrated an authoritarian mindset, attempting to tighten the noose around a Chief Minister or a minister of any state,” Karra said.
Speaking to reporters after paying floral tributes to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary, Karra urged the Centre to respect the wishes and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “They have tampered with the identity of the people of J-K, stripped away their constitutional guarantees, and undermined protection of land, resources, and jobs. Instead of honoring the people’s aspirations, they are once again showcasing an anti-J-K stance,” he added.
When asked if Congress would support the signature campaign launched by J-K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for the restoration of statehood, Karra clarified that while Congress is in alliance with NC, it follows its own agenda. “Do not put words into our mouth. We are in complete alliance with them but not part of the government. We have our own manifesto, and they have theirs. While NC addresses statehood in its way, Congress has launched its own struggle for the restoration of statehood,” he said.
