Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar: (DD):People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Spokesperson Dr Mehboob Beg today raised serious concerns over the current political climate in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing the government of targeting the Muslim community, stifling democratic debate and remaining silent on the long-pending demand for the restoration of statehood.
Addressing reporters in Srinagar following a high-level party meeting chaired by Dr Beg, said: “Muslims, particularly men, are facing increasing scrutiny—from our attire and dietary practices to our religious beliefs. If the government claims it does not discriminate, then what is this behaviour we are witnessing?”
He strongly criticised Assembly Speaker Rahim Rather for blocking a discussion on Waqf affairs. “In a region with a Muslim majority, when even discussions on vital religious institutions like the Waqf are not permitted in the Assembly, one must ask—what sort of democracy are we living in? This conduct from the Speaker was unexpected and deeply disappointing,” he said.
The PDP meeting focused on the post-election landscape, legislative priorities, and the evolving political environment. Dr Beg noted that the people had firmly rejected the BJP, electing the National Conference (NC) instead. “The public’s vote was a clear response to growing apprehensions about marginalisation and repression. It was a rejection of fear politics,” he added.
Turning his attention to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Beg questioned the government’s silence on the issue of statehood. “We are not calling for confrontation—we’re merely demanding what even the Prime Minister has publicly acknowledged. If the Chief Minister cannot even request a timeframe from the Centre for the restoration of statehood, what purpose is he serving?”
“Why this silence from Omar Abdullah’s government?” he continued. “If nothing can be done immediately, the least he can do is speak up on behalf of the people.”
Referring to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent comment that terrorism is under control but not fully eliminated, Beg asked, “Is the idea that statehood should remain in limbo until there’s absolute peace? Is that a justifiable reason to continue withholding democratic rights from the people?”
Reiterating the PDP’s stance, Beg concluded, “We are not trying to stir unrest—we are demanding accountability. These are legitimate questions every citizen is asking. Why are they being treated as threats?”(DD)