Says release of Prisoners only possible when Statehood is restored; Law and Order Centre’s Domain; Special Status Resolution not rejected anywhere
TDD Correspondent
Srinagar, (TDD): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said a Cabinet Sub Committee (CSC) has been constituted in today’s cabinet meeting in Jammu that will talk to various stakeholders on the reservation policy and take a holistic view. He also urged the Army to inquire the alleged torture allegations in Kishtwar and ensure court martial to the soldiers if found guilty in beating the civilians.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a function in Srinagar, Omar said that in the Cabinet meeting held in Jammu today, a Cabinet Sub Committee (CSC) was constituted to review the reservation policy and submit a report in a time-bound period. “The CSC will take a holistic view in the backdrop of Supreme Court guidelines,” he said, adding that “the aim is to ensure justice and satisfy all stakeholders.
To a query about special status resolution, the Chief Minister said that resolution is alive and has been rejected. “You must have seen, Prime Minister and Home Minister talking about it. So those claiming there is nothing in resolution should not talk like this. Let us get back the statehood and we will pursue the matter vigorously,” he said, adding that at this juncture security and law and order was not his government’s domain. “So as far as the release of political prisoners, we need a full fledged statehood to review their cases and seek their release.”
On the recent allegations of torture in Kishtwar, Omar urged the army to conduct a thorough investigation. “If any soldiers are found guilty, they should be court-martialed. I have seen people dying in custody of police and security forces camps,” he said.
Omar said he has directed the power department to ensure there is less curtailment in the areas where there is less theft during the winters. “I am sure to see improved power supply this winter in Kashmir. Let there be rainfall and snowfall so that power availability improves,” the Chief Minister said—(TDD)
