MLAs condemn attack on Dr Farooq, seek thorough probe

Jammu, Mar 28: In a rare show of unity in the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly, MLAs cutting across party lines on Saturday condemned the attack on former Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah and demanded a thorough probe into the incident.
The issue was discussed in the House at length after MLAs from the National Conference submitted an adjournment motion.
Opening the debate, NC’s Salman Sagar termed the attack “highly condemnable” and called for a time-bound investigation report. “If a leader of such stature is not safe, it raises serious concerns about the security of others,” he said.
His party colleague, MLA Trehgam Mir Saifullah, questioned the silence of authorities over the attack on the NC president. “Why has no official statement been issued? Why was adequate security not in place?” he asked, alleging a possible conspiracy behind the incident.
Senior BJP leader and MLA Sham Lal Sharma described Dr Abdullah as a “tall leader who needs no certification.” He said the incident pointed to possible security lapses that must be investigated.
Bandipora MLA Nizam-ud-Din Bhat described Dr Abdullah as a “national asset” and stressed that his safety was the responsibility of the state.
Minister for Health & Medical Education Sakeena Itoo said it was encouraging to see unity across party lines but termed the silence of the Home Department “unfortunate.”
She demanded that the investigation report be placed before the House and questioned whether any officials had been held accountable.
MLA Ramban, Arjun Singh Raju linked the attack to rising communal tensions and called for a united political stand against divisive forces.
BJP MLA Rajiv Jasrotia termed the incident an attempt to disturb communal harmony and urged that findings
His party colleague Pawan Kumar Gupta said the attack could have turned tragic if not for the timely action of security personnel, suggesting they be rewarded.
CPI(M) leader M. Y. Tarigami termed the incident an “assault on society” and called for strict action against those responsible.
Condemning the attack, Peoples Conference MLA Sajad Gani Lone recalled past killings of legislators, saying such incidents reopen old wounds. He urged the House to ensure that security is not compromised under any circumstances.
PDP’s Waheed –Ur- Rehman Parra also condemned the attack, calling it shameful. (KNO)