In Srinagar, a notable incident occurred when Dr. Farooq Abdullah, the president of the National Conference (NC), was prevented from meeting Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh due to police barricades at Singh’s residence within the Government Circuit house. In response, Singh climbed over the gate to engage in conversation with Abdullah. The two leaders mutually condemned the police’s actions, alleging political motivations and the involvement of the Lieutenant Governor.
The meeting was prompted by increasing tensions surrounding the detention of Doda MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Abdullah appealed to the government to reconsider its decision, asserting that the PSA should not be used against an elected representative. He pointed out that the Doda district was already dealing with the impact of floods, and the situation was being further aggravated.
Abdullah expressed his disapproval of the MLA’s behavior with the Deputy Commissioner of Doda, while emphasizing that the missteps should not have warranted such severe actions. Abdullah insisted that the PSA should be revoked and that the MLA should also apologize.
Sanjay Singh supported Abdullah’s views, criticizing the government’s use of heavy-handed tactics. He stated that the police’s behavior was an obvious attempt to suppress opposition and threaten elected officials.
Furthermore, Abdullah welcomed the introduction of goods train services in Kashmir, considering it a positive step amidst the ongoing disruptions of the Srinagar-Jammu National highway.