PDP slams Opposition parties on Sainik colony issue, says they are 'playing with fire'

Srinagar: Ruling PDP on Monday accused Opposition parties in Jammu and Kashmir of trying to “create confusion” over the Sainik colony issue, saying they were “playing with fire” and trying to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere in the state by “rumour mongering”. The NC had alleged that PDP alloted land for establishing a Sainik colony housing project for ex-servicemen in the Valley, citing “unambiguous proof” in official records, a charge rejected by the ruling party. “I appeal to one and all to ensure that peace and tranquility prevail in the valley. Those trying to create confusion over the Sainik colony issue must realise that they are playing with fire and trying to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere in the state by resorting to rumour mongering,” PDP chief spokesperson Mehboob Beg said here. [caption id=“attachment_2772798” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] Jammu and Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti. Reuters[/caption] PDP’s stand has always been unambiguous on the issue and there could never be any deviation from what is permitted and what is not permitted under the Constitution of the state, he said. “All those who are the ‘permanent residents’ of the state of Jammu and Kashmir can own land, irrespective of their caste, creed and religion, the law is absolutely clear and there is no confusion in this regard. Anybody trying to create confusion in this regard is only trying to create an atmosphere of uncertainty in the state,” he said. The PDP chief spokesperson said providing shelter to persons working or serving in the state under various capacities was a separate issue and should not be mixed with the controversy “that was sought to be created”. “Nothing should be done which will disrupt and disturb tourism in the state that was picking up and showing every sign of helping boost the economy of the state, this season. The opposition parties should desist from making threats of setting the state on fire. “The government has made it clear once for all that no such proposal is on the cards and such a proposal can never see the light of day, the matter should end there and the opposition must behave in a mature way, rather than resorting to gimmicks,” he said. Beg said “every person working in the state will be provided safe conditions and no non-resident of the state can or will hold any land in the State. These are two separate issues and both are very clear, there is no scope of any confusion in this regard.”