Blasphemy remarks: Multiple protests held across JK
Srinagar: Protest demonstrations were reported for the 2nd consecutive days in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday against a viral video in which a ‘fanatic’ has made incendiary remarks against Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
A complete shutdown was observed in Gool Gulabgarh area of Ramban district while peaceful protests were organized in different parts including Doda, Kishtwar, Gool Gulabgarh, Ramban, Reasi, Srinagar, Pulwama, Baramulla, Anantnag and other parts areas, despite Police arresting all the three accused.
A large number of people staged protest in Rawalpora Srinagar, Pulwama, Uri, Sopore, Mattan Anantnag demanding stern punishment to extremists responsible for hurting the sentiments of Muslims.
“No Muslim would tolerate abuses against the prophet (PBUH). The culprits should be detained under preventive law and should be handed a strict punishment. Their words have the potential to disturb peace in Jammu and Kashmir,” said a protester at Rawalpora.
Pertinently, police have said that the accused, identified as Satpal, Rohit and Deepak, have been arrested.
“I appeal to the people to desist from circulating the video as it will harm communal amity. The police will never tolerate these persons who create tensions between communities. Police will act harshly against such people,” IGP Jammu Mukesh Singh had said.
Firdous Tak, a former lawmaker from Jammu, said the first information report registered by the police against the accused has a legal flaw.
In a Twitter post, Tak said the district magistrate concerned should have filed the complaint against the accused, adding in absence of such a complaint, it is easier for the accused to walk free.
Reports said that local Muslims across the Jammu region organized scores of rallies in protest, while various Muslim religious and community groups in the region, including Anjuman Islamia, Bhaderwah; Jamia Masjid Committee, Tathri and Kishtwar Islami Markazi Majlis-e-Shura have asked people to register protest till culprits are not detained under Public Safety Act. (KNT)