DGP praises Kashmiris for protesting peacefully

 Srinagar, Aug 06: Director General of Police, S P Vaid, on Monday praised the people of Kashmir for protesting peacefully over the Article 35 A.

Kashmir Valley, and parts of Jammu and Ladakh regions observed a complete shutdown for two days on the call of Joint Resistance Leadership against the “politically-motivated move” of tempering with the Article 35 A.

The JK Police Chief said the situation remained “normal” for two days. “There was no violence anywhere. It is good that people put forth their viewpoint peacefully,” Vaid said.

“People in the valley expressed (their viewpoint) peacefully instead resorting to violence.”

Political parties across the spectrum have threatened agitation if there was any tempering with the legislation that gives special rights to JK residents.

They have been demanding quashing of the petitions filed in the Supreme Court against the Article 35 A.

Governor NN Vohra had sought a deferment until the state gets an elected government and the topic becomes less-sensitive.

However, the apex court said it would hear the petitions on August 27.

Over the attacks on SPOs, Vaid said they were taking all measures to ensure security of police personnel.

He said the police has started a crowd funding campaign to provide financial aid to the families of SPOs killed while fighting militancy.

“They scarified their lives to ensure peace in Jammu and Kashmir. It is because of them we live a peaceful life. Nobody is looking after their families when they (SPOs) sacrifice their lives as they are the lowest paid. I appeal everyone to provide financial help for families of these SPOs,” he said.

At least, 499 SPOs have been killed in the last 27 years in the state. The police have decided that a part of the funds generated would be set aside for providing assistance to the SPOs injured “during operations and their dependents suffering from terminal diseases”.

About the youth joining militants, the DGP hoped that there would be an improvement in the situation.