Restrictions on Cong event spark row
Ahead of the Congress party’s convention for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, the Kishtwar administration has imposed multiple restrictions on the event, angering party leaders.
Mohd Asif Naqeeb, the district president of Congress, had submitted a letter to the district administration on February 15 seeking permission to hold the event on February 19, which would be attended by J&K party chief Tariq Hameed Karra and other senior leaders.
However, the District Magistrate’s office issued a set of 15 dos and don’ts for the party workers. According to the order, “the organiser shall ensure to hold the workers meet at the earmarked venue, i.e., TRC Kishtwar (indoor), on the scheduled date and time, and in no case, shall the protestors be allowed to move in the shape of a rally.”
The order further stated that if any untoward incident occurs during the meeting, the organiser concerned would be held responsible. Additionally, the organiser was instructed to ensure the proper use of silencers to prevent noise pollution.
Congress spokesperson for J&K, Ravinder Sharma, expressed his frustration, saying, “Ahead of the Congress convention for restoration of statehood, the administration has issued multiple instructions.” He questioned, “Has the administration given us permission to hold the event, or has it imposed restrictions on us?”
The guidelines also specify that the organiser must ensure the workers’ meeting does not block the National Highway or any local roads. No one is allowed to speak against the constitution or the administration’s positive initiatives for bringing transparency and accountability. The organisers are required to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and cover any costs associated with the workers’ meet. The organiser will be held responsible for any violations, the instructions stated.
