Union Minister Rajnath Singh seeks report over release of separatist leader Masarat Alam

Following the controversial remarks of Hurriyat hardliner Masarat Alam, the Ministry of Home Affairs has asked the newly formed Jammu and Kashmir government to share a report on the circumstances that lead to the release of the separatist leader from jail. Alam has over 15 cases pending against him.

The move comes after the J&K wing of BJP raised objections to the statements made by Alam while addressing press conference. “Mufti Sayeed should not try to take political mileage out of it. I was released through a normal legal procedure since my Public safety Act (PSA) detention was about to end in the next two to three days,” quoted Alam in a PTI report.

He further added, “What difference does it make if one person is released when there are thousands languishing in jails." Alam has been held responsible for the killing of youths in the unrest that took place in the valley in 2010.

The report also alleged that the 44-year old separatist has 15 cases pending against him that include cases under Section 120 and 121 Ranbir Penal Code (waging war against the country) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

According to the PTI report, officials of the J&K home ministry worked on Sunday as well in order to prepare the report.

It should be noted that the recent release of Alam has strained the ties between People’ Democratic Party and BJP following Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s statement in which he applauded Pakistan, Hurriyat Conference and militant outfits for allowing smooth conduct of elections in the state.