BJP's Altaf Thakur Demands Public Apology from Omar, Mehbooba Over Past Civilian Killings, Opposes Reopening of Muzaffarabad Road
Srinagar, July 29 (ANB): BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur on Wednesday called on National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti to publicly apologise for civilian killings and pellet-related injuries that occurred during their respective tenures in government, asserting that the people of Kashmir deserve accountability for past events.
Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters in Srinagar, Thakur accused the two former Chief Ministers of engaging in "selective politics" by raising the issue of pellet victims while, according to him, failing to acknowledge incidents that took place when they were in office.
"Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti should apologise to the people of Kashmir for the civilian killings that took place during their tenure. The people have not forgotten those painful chapters, and those responsible must answer for them," Thakur said.
He alleged that both leaders were attempting to politicise the suffering of Kashmiris instead of accepting responsibility for the handling of law-and-order situations during their governments.
Citing figures to support his claims, Thakur said that during Omar Abdullah's tenure there were between 130 and 145 civilian fatalities, 8,000 to 9,000 pellet-related injuries, while 256 people were allegedly blinded due to pellet fire. He also claimed that more than 1,000 individuals continue to remain affected by detentions under the Public Safety Act (PSA).
Referring to pellet victims, Thakur said their suffering should not be used for political purposes and stressed the need for justice, rehabilitation, medical care and long-term support for affected families.
The BJP leader said the people of Jammu and Kashmir were now prioritising peace, development, employment and good governance over what he described as "selective narratives" and urged political parties to focus on constructive politics and democratic governance.
Responding to a question on the possible reopening of the Muzaffarabad road, Thakur said the BJP remained opposed to the move, citing continued security concerns. He alleged that reopening the cross-Line of Control route could facilitate the infiltration of terrorists as well as the smuggling of weapons and narcotics into Jammu and Kashmir.
"There can be no meaningful discussion on reopening the route until Pakistan stops sponsoring terrorism and the security situation improves substantially," he said.
Thakur reiterated that the BJP-led government remained committed to strengthening security, promoting development and ensuring lasting peace across Jammu and Kashmir. He said the people deserved accountable leadership focused on governance, infrastructure, investment, employment and public welfare.
Concluding his remarks, Thakur said political leaders seeking to represent the people must also be prepared to answer for their own record in office, adding that the people of Kashmir deserved "truth, accountability and justice." ANB
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