SASB triggering off dangerous polarization in the State: PDP
KT NEWS SERVICE SRINAGAR, June 18: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed deep concern that extra-constitutional utterances and actions of certain individuals occupying office of high authority have started triggering off a dangerous polarization in the State.
In a statement issued here today, spokesperson of the party has said that instead of addressing genuine public concern and allaying serious apprehensions aroused by the raging controversy over the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board's twisted interpretation of the allotment of state land, the Board authorities have been confounding the confusion.
He has said that PDP has been watching with concern the recent developments related to the Amarnath Pilgrimage, the role of the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) and the recent decision of the sate government to make available a demarcated piece of land for development of temporary facilities for the Yatris.
The spokesperson has affirmed that there has been a great degree of satisfaction for the party that the people of the state have finally realized the value and strength of their voice and its expression through civilized and political means.
He has said that it has been a mission of the PDP to secure for our people the all important right of expression which unfortunately was not available to them for most part of our recent history.
PDP spokesperson has emphasized that during the current discourse on the issue, a parallel has sought to be drawn between the Government's decision to allot land to the Baba Shah Ghulam Shah Badshah University at Rajouri and the unending demands made for development of infrastructure for the Yatris.
The spokesperson has said that Peoples Democratic Party has always been in the forefront to respond to all the aspirations of the people of the State and channelize them through democratic means.
PDP has appealed to all those who have shown well meaning concern for the political interests and ecology and environment of the State to steer clear of all the attempts that have been constantly been made to present the Yatra as an issue between Hindus and Muslims.
The spokesperson has said that the latest remarks by a Board official about the distinction of pollution on communal lines is a pointer to the depth of the conspiracy, adding that PDP will keep traditional brotherhood intact and continue to receive the Yatris with open arms and a warm heart.
It is highly regrettable that the spirit of hospitality, accommodation and warmth has been systematically sought to be politicized and communalized, said the spokesperson.
He has said that PDP Patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had cautioned about it when he was the Chief Minister of the State and warned of the pit falls that the unimaginative leadership of the Board could lead us to.
"Unfortunately, our worst fears have started coming true.
It is for all of us to remain on guard against any attempts to tarnish the image of Kashmir," added the spokesperson.
He has said that the situation has now reached a stage when even the officials of the Board belonging to country's premier Administrative Service have started questioning the authority of the same legislature that has empowered the governor to run the affairs of the Amarnath Yatra.