Jammu and Kashmir Political Parties Unite to Condemn Police Chief’s Remarks
In recent developments from Jammu and Kashmir, a rare moment of unity was observed among mainstream political parties as they collectively condemned the statements made by Director General of Police (DGP) R R Swain. The police chief alleged that regional political outfits in the Valley have been collaborating with terror leaders for political gains. Such remarks have ignited a firestorm of criticism from multiple political figures in the region, asserting the statements are both unfounded and detrimental to their long-standing efforts to maintain peace and stability.
Controversial Remarks
On Monday, DGP Swain stated that Pakistan had successfully infiltrated all significant sectors of civil society in Jammu and Kashmir during the height of militancy. He accused regional political parties of exploiting terror leaders for their own political objectives. Specifically, Swain remarked, “Pakistan successfully infiltrated all important aspects of civil society, thanks to so-called mainstream or regional politics in the Valley. There is ample evidence to show that many had owned the art of running with the hare and hunting with the hound, which left both the common man and the security bewildered, frightened, and confused.”
Political Backlash
This assertion did not sit well with the region’s political leaders. Mehbooba Mufti, President of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, demanded Swain’s dismissal. She accused the DGP of not only maligning the political parties but also failing to address the root causes of ongoing security issues in the region. Mufti called for accountability, citing the loss of 50 soldiers in terror attacks over the past 32 months as a tragic example of the current leadership’s inefficacy.
Similarly, the National Conference (NC) heavily criticized Swain’s comments. Nasir Sogami, the party’s Kashmir zone chief, highlighted the sacrifices made by NC members for the country’s integrity. He cited historical figures like Maqbool Sherwani and Mohammed Yusuf Halwai, emphasizing their contributions to countering Pakistani incursions and terrorist activities. “By making this statement, the DGP has insulted the great sacrifices of National Conference leaders,” Sogami stated, adding that over 3,000 NC leaders have laid down their lives for the country’s integrity.
Sogami also mentioned that while “black sheep” may exist in any organization, including political parties and security agencies, such exceptions should not define the whole. He accused Swain’s remarks of undermining these sacrifices and benefiting adversaries across the border.
Calls for Responsibility
Other political entities, including the Congress and CPI(M), joined in the denunciation. Senior Congress leader Ghulam Ahmad Mir called Swain’s statement “irresponsible,” arguing that political parties have played a positive role in encouraging democratic participation, especially in recent elections. Congress, CPI(M), and other parties urged the DGP to concentrate on his professional responsibilities rather than making political statements.
M Y Tarigami of CPI(M) echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the DGP should confine himself to his professional scope and avoid political commentary. This view was reinforced by Sajad Lone of the People’s Conference, who described Swain’s words as a sign of “disdain and contempt for democracy.”
Historical Context
Jammu and Kashmir have long been a strategically sensitive and politically turbulent region, often finding itself at the epicenter of conflicts between India and Pakistan. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which granted special autonomy to the region, tensions have been exceptionally high. The move was met with mixed reactions locally and has resulted in increased security measures and political unrest.
Navigating the intricate and historically volatile environment of Jammu and Kashmir requires both sensitivity and acumen. Political leaders and security officials are expected to carefully balance their duties to ensure both peace and the upholding of democratic values. Statements like those made by DGP Swain serve as a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics at play and the need for coordinated efforts to maintain stability in this restive region.
