Farooq Abdullah seeks probe into killing of 2 migrant labourers in Kulgam, questions timing of attack

Srinagar, Aug 1: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday called for an investigation into the killing of two migrant labourers in a terror attack in Kulgam, and asked why such incidents happen whenever his party demands the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.

“I regret it. We do not even know who killed them and how they were killed. There should be an investigation, a fair probe into who the killers are,” Abdullah told reporters in Tangmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

“I don’t know why such incidents happen when we seek statehood,” he said.

Deepak Ratray and Bopinder, both from Chhattisgarh and in their 20s, were killed in the terrorist attack at a brick kiln in the Kelam area of Kulgam district late Friday evening.

On July 22, Jammu and Kashmir Police Head Constable Ashiq Hussain was shot dead by a lone terrorist in the Lal Chowk area of Anantnag while he was on Amarnath Yatra duty.

Later, addressing NC office-bearers and workers at a party event in Tangmarg, Abdullah urged them to remain steadfast, united and unwavering in pursuing the party’s democratic struggle.

He said the NC’s mission extends beyond the restoration of statehood and encompasses the recovery of all constitutional, democratic and political rights that have been taken away from the people of J&K.

Emphasising the need for unity, Abdullah said the people of J&K, irrespective of region, religion or community, must stand together to safeguard peace, democracy and constitutional values while facing every challenge with patience, resilience and determination.

Calling upon the central government to honour its commitments, the NC president said there should be no further delay in restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.

“A trust deficit continues to persist between the people of the region and New Delhi,” he claimed.

Rebuilding confidence requires sincere respect for democratic aspirations, constitutional rights and sentiments of the people, he added.

Abdullah said the reinstatement of democratic institutions in their true constitutional spirit is indispensable for lasting peace, political stability and meaningful empowerment of the people of J&K. (PTI)