Mehbooba Mufti slams claims on social media that non-locals are being forced to leave J&K

Srinagar: Following the recent militant attack in Gagangir, which left seven people dead, including a doctor, former CM and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti, on Tuesday slammed reports that the local administration is pressuring non-local workers to leave Jammu and Kashmir.

In a tweet, Mufti acknowledged fear among non-locals but stressed that such measures are not a viable solution.

“Following the barbaric attack on Sonamarg, there have been reports that the local administration is putting pressure on non-local workers to leave the valley immediately,” Mufti wrote. “While I understand their obvious feelings of panic, asking them to leave in this way is not a solution. This will only create more difficulties and send a very bad message to the country.”

She further noted that Jammu and Kashmir recently held peaceful, terrorism-free elections and such a “knee-jerk reaction” could jeopardize the progress made.

Mufti also expressed concern about the potential backlash against Kashmiris living and studying in other states, calling on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to intervene and ensure that non-local workers are given enough time to ensure their safety.

The attack, targeting workers involved in the Z-Mor tunnel project, came just four days after the region transitioned from presidential rule to an elected government.

In response to the growing protest, the Jammu and Kashmir Police issued a statement refuting allegations that local authorities had ordered non-local workers to leave the valley.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir V.K. Birdie reassured the public of the police’s commitment to ensuring security in the region.

“Reports on social media that the local administration has asked out-of-town workers to leave the valley are false,” police said.

“The Jammu and Kashmir Police is committed to providing a safe environment for all people to carry out their activities without fear or intimidation. The general public is advised not to pay attention to such false information on social media.”

Earlier, the Ganderbal police had also responded to Mehbooba’s concerns, saying, “The recent social media post about non-local workers being asked to leave is completely baseless. The J&K Police is committed to maintaining security and providing a sense of security to all who intend to earn a living.”

The police statements are aimed at reassuring both local and non-local residents that efforts are being made to ensure their protection and prevent any escalation of tensions following the attack.

Read more:

1. Explainer: Z-Mor Tunnel and its Strategic Importance in Jammu and Kashmir
2. JK Ganderbal Tunnel Terrorist Attack: 7 killed including doctor; TRF Pakistan takes responsibility