TNI Bureau: After the initial reluctance to take a clear stand on 2001 Parliament Attack convict Afzal Guru’s hanging, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has spoken against the Centre and made it categorical that he had no role to play in the decision taken by the centre.
While talking to leading TV channel NDTV, Omar raised questions on why the killers of former PM Rajiv Gandhi and former Punjab CM Beant Singh were still alive while Afzal Guru was hanged in haste. He feared that Guru’s hanging would lead to further alienation of Kashmiris from the Indian mainstream.
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Omar minced no words to say that Afzal Guru’s hanging was a political decision, rather than a judicial process. He also casted doubt on the trial, saying Afzal Guru may not have received a fair trial.
Omar also expressed shock and surprise that Guru’s family was properly communicated about his hanging and not even allowed to meet him in his last hours. He criticised the Home Ministry for its claim that Afzal’s family was informed through Speed Post, saying it was least expected in this Internet age.
Meanwhile, curfew continues in various parts of Jammu & Kashmir amidst reports of violent incidents in some areas. At least one person died, while several others were injured in the clashes. The cable TV and Internet services remain suspended in Kashmir Valley, while no national or local newspapers are available. According to reports, the authorities have imposed a ban on the publication of newspapers in Jammu & Kashmir, fearing violence.