Manhandling of Kashmiri inmates in Tihar jail unacceptable: J&K CM

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday said the "manhandling" of prisoners hailing from the state in the Tihar Central Jail in Delhi was shameful and unacceptable.

"The recent incident of manhandling of prisoners at the Tihar jail is unacceptable. By such an act, (jail) personnel involved have not only brought disrespect to their state but to their fraternity as well," she said at the passing out parade at a training centre in Kathua district.

The Chief Minister said in a civilised democracy, even convicts have been guaranteed legal protection which ought to be extended to the undertrials.

At least 18 inmates of jail number one were allegedly beaten up by the jail staff on November 21 night.

Lauding the Jammu and Kasmir Police for patience and discipline in dealing with law and order situations, Mufti said good behaviour with the general public and strict discipline are key to excellent policing.

"There are many challenges on the ground while dealing with situations, but the job done with discipline, dedication, and good behaviour with people fetches the desired results with huge public cooperation."

"Protection of life and property of civilians and performing duty with balance are the fundamental duties of an efficient police force. The state police has no parallel in its professional commitment and discipline," she said.

Mufti also said that the root cause of militancy needs to be identified and fixed.

She said she had ordered a review of cases registered against the youth during last year's unrest.

"You need to do parenting of these youth who are barely 12-14 years of age. They need to be counselled, educated, and guided for which you people have to act as their philosophers and guides," she told the police force.

Listing drugs as another challenge, Mufti asked the police to pursue peddlers with full force and free innocent youths from the clutches of drug addiction.

The Chief Minister expressed dismay over rising crime against women and hoped the women's police stations set up by her government would be able to provide justice to the victims.

--IANS

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