SRINAGAR: Erstwhile BJP minister who now heads the Dogra Swabhimaan Sangathan party has sought immediate release of the youth detained by police in Jammu.
Singh told reporters that a group of young activists had dared to raise their voices against the “illegal” toll collection at Lakhanpur, a practice that stood in blatant disregard of both standing guidelines and the assurances given by the Home Minister, Amit Shah. In response, these men were arrested.
“This action of the authorities is highly condemnable and undemocratic,” he said. “We are living in an Era of anarchy and lawlessness. There is no justification for taxing people when the roads are in shambles and the damaged bridge is causing immeasurable inconvenience.”
The toll, far from being a source of revenue for development, had become a burden on the already strained pockets of the public. “We will not tolerate any such action from the Government,” Singh declared. “We demand the immediate release of these youth who were merely exercising their democratic right to protest against injustice.”
Interestingly, Singh urged the youth make it an inclusive agitation of all Dogras and not to confine themselves to any particular community. “Let’s stand together as one, as Dogras, regardless of our backgrounds. This is a testing time, and our unity will be our strength.”
Meanwhile, Jammu Muslim Front has expressed its concern over the deteriorating situation of Jammu and appealed LG Manoj Sinha to order the release of all youths who have been taken into custody at Sarore. “Such action on our innocent youth is a matter of grave concern and in a democratic society to register displeasure is a fundamental right,” the statement said. “LG should order an inquiry into why the norms of national highway have not been adhered to while the opening of this toll plaza.”
