Expressing concern over prolonged detention of mainstream leaders in Kashmir, National Conference Tuesday welcomed joint statement of the opposition, seeking release of all incarcerated leaders including three former Chief Ministers.
“The appeal made by the opposition to the Centre for releaseof detainees and restoration of political activities in Jammu and Kashmir isreflection of deeply ingrained democratic spirit of the country that has beenacknowledged globally”, senior National Conference leaders said in a jointstatement.
The statement regretted continued detention of the partyleadership, adding it was for the third consecutive time when therepresentative voice of people of Kashmir was not allowed to raise people’sissues in the Parliament.
“Denial to Dr Farooq Abdullah in participating in theParliamentary proceedings is not only undemocratic but a matter of concern forall those believing in highest traditions of civil liberties in this country,”the statement said.
The statement said absence of political activities hascreated a vacuum across Jammu and Kashmir, with people suffering from a senseof denial, especially owing to complete disconnect with the government.
“Thissense of denial and alienation has potential of people losing faith indemocratic polity. Earnest steps needs to be taken for restoration of democracyand allowing political activities in a free atmosphere,” the statement said.
The party leaders expressedgratitude to the opposition leaders for their solidarity with Kashmirmainstream and appreciated raising the issue regarding release of seniorparliamentarian, in both Houses of the Parliament.
Besides, provincial President Devender Singh Rana, thesignatories to the joint statement included Ajay Kr Sadhotra, Surjeet SinghSalathia, Rattan Lal Gupta, Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari, Sheikh Bashir Ahmed, JavedAhmed Rana , Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo and others.