Jammu, Mar 11 Chief Minister Omar Abdullah strongly condemned the use of force against protesting daily wagers, emphasizing that their struggle is a humanitarian rather than just a financial one. He expressed hope that in the future, the police under the Union Home Department’s control would not resort to lathi charge on these workers.
The issue of daily wagers dominated proceedings in the Legislative Assembly as opposition members raised concerns over their ongoing protests for wage disbursement and job regularization. They also criticized the recent police action against them. The situation escalated when BJP and National Conference legislators engaged in a heated verbal exchange, prompting BJP MLAs to stage a walkout.
Intervening in the debate, Omar Abdullah directly addressed BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa, urging patience. “You have asked a question, now wait for the answer,” he said. The Chief Minister pointed out that the Jammu and Kashmir government had no authority over the police. “Randhawa Sahab, unfortunately, neither you nor I control the police,” he remarked, implying that the opposition should direct its grievances toward the Lieutenant Governor, where the actual power lies.
Omar Abdullah reiterated that the lathi charge on daily wagers was not sanctioned by his government and should not have happened. “These employees are ours. Their demands are legitimate. They deserve to be treated with compassion, not with batons,” he asserted.
He further expressed confidence that the House’s collective concern had reached the police authorities. “Next time, when these workers raise their voices for their rights, they will not face police brutality,” he assured. [KNT]
