J&K Dy CM Slams Selective Security for MLAs, Calls It a Mockery of Democracy
Surinder Kumar Choudhary urges fair security allocation based on threat perception, questions claims of normalcy in the region
JAMMU, Apr 1: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Wednesday raised concerns over the selective withdrawal and allocation of security for MLAs, terming the practice a “mockery of democracy.”
Speaking to reporters outside the assembly, Choudhary questioned the rationale behind the move, highlighting that even his own security detail had been reduced. “Ask the DG sir this. On one hand, security for ministers is being withdrawn; on the other, vulnerable MLAs are seeing cuts. Even my own security has been reduced. Please ask the DG sir,” he said.
Choudhary also challenged claims of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir, citing ongoing encounters and recent attacks, including one on former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, as evidence that security threats persist. “If the situation is truly normal, why are these encounters happening? If there is no militancy, then what about the safety concerns?” he questioned.
He accused the selective provision of security to certain representatives of undermining democratic principles, calling for allocations strictly based on threat assessments. The deputy chief minister expressed confidence that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who oversees the police, would intervene to ensure a fair and transparent system.
“This arrangement cannot continue. Security must be provided according to actual threat levels. Jammu and Kashmir faces ongoing security challenges, and if the region is genuinely stable, then restoration of statehood should follow,” Choudhary added.
