SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said opposition to the government should not be equated with opposition to the nation, urging authorities to stop targeting young protesters.
Expressing concern over action against youth involved in protests, Abdullah said dissent was a legitimate part of a democratic system and should not be treated as anti-national.
He said young people should be given an opportunity to voice their concerns rather than being subjected to punitive action for expressing dissent.
The Chief Minister stressed that disagreement with government policies or decisions does not amount to opposition to the country, calling for a distinction between political dissent and anti-national activity.
Abdullah’s remarks came amid concerns over action against young protesters, with the Chief Minister emphasising the need for authorities to listen to the concerns of the youth.
