“Omar’s statement that he has no powers to disband VDCs very shameful and surprising.”
SRINAGAR: Kashmir’s octogenarian separatist leader, Syed Ali Geelani on Tuesday said that Muslims in the chenab region of the state would continue to feel “insecure” unless the Village Defence Committees are disbanded.
The VDCs are civilian groups armed by the government to fight militants. Statistics show majority of VDC members belong to the Hindu community.
The role of these VDCs has come under scanner during the communal clashes in Kishtwar that left three dead and scores wounded.
Geelani said that till these committees are disbanded their “threat” will “haunt” Muslims of the region.
Lashing out at the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah-led administration for rejecting the demand for dissolution of VDCs, Geelani said “occurrences of such (kishtwar-like) incidents in future cannot be ruled out.”
He also said that expenditure incurred on VDCs was an “unnecessary” burden on the state exchequer.
“It will put an end to present turmoil and thereof the differences between the two communities,” he said.
While criticizing Omar for saying that he had no powers to dissolve these committees, Geelani said “It is very shameful and surprising. It has proved that status of Omar Abdullah is not more than a show boy and Delhi does not take any of his steps seriously.”
“While in power, (he) has agreed for this humiliation and does not care even for his self respect.”
Also Read: Petition Seeking Disbanding of VDC Moved in Kashmir High Court
Geelani said the Hurriyat is closely monitoring the situation and added that they stand by Muslims of Jammu province and won’t leave them at the mercy of communal elements.
“We will raise our voice against the excesses and would try to seek the help and moral support of non Muslim brothers on the basis of mutual human relations,” he said.
