Administration Debunks Mehbooba’s Claim: ‘No Truth’ in Non-Local Labourers Being Forced Out”
Srinagar, Oct 22, KNT: A controversy has erupted in Jammu and Kashmir, with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti claiming that the administration is pressuring non-local labourers to leave the Valley. This comes after a deadly militant attack in Sonamarg that killed seven people, including a Kashmiri doctor and labourers working on the Srinagar-Leh national highway.
Mehbooba Mufti took to social media to express her concerns, stating that the “knee-jerk” reaction would create more difficulties and damage the region’s image, particularly after recent peaceful elections. “After the barbaric attack at Sonamarg, there are reports that the local admin is pressurizing non-local labourers to leave the valley immediately,” she said. “While I understand their obvious sense of panic, asking them to leave in this manner is not a solution.”
Mehbooba Mufti requested Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to intervene and provide enough time for non-local labourers to stay. She warned that this move could lead to outrage against Kashmiris working and studying in other states.
However, the Jammu and Kashmir Police quickly dismissed Mehbooba Mufti’s claims as “completely baseless.” They assured that the police are committed to maintaining security and safety for all individuals earning their livelihood in the region.
The Divisional Administration Kashmir also clarified that the rumours about the administration forcing non-local workers to leave are false. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of non-local workers and urged locals to cooperate in defeating the agenda of vested interests seeking to derail peace in the Valley.
They added that the administration has taken all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of non-local workers and that rumours spread on social media platforms are unfounded. [KNT]
