The PDP and National Conference on Friday criticised the Centre's decision to ban Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, saying it is against the essence of democracy which allows space to opposing political thoughts.
Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti termed the decision as another example of "muscular approach" of the Centre to deal with the political issue and wondered if "being anti-BJP" is "anti national now".
"Democracy is a battle of ideas. Crackdown followed by banning of Jammat Islami (JK) is condemnable, another example of high handedness and muscular approach of GOI to deal with political issue of J&k," the former chief minister said in a tweet.
The Centre on Thursday banned the Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir for five years under anti-terror law on grounds that it was "in close touch" with militant outfits and is expected to "escalate secessionist movement" in the state.
A notification, banning the group under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, was issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs after a high-level meeting on security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Mehbooba, who led a coalition government with the BJP from April 2016 to June 2018, tweeted, "Why is GoI so uncomfortable with Jamaat e Islami? Radicalised Hindu groups representing fringe elements are given carte blanche to spread misinformation & vitiate the atmosphere.
"But an org that has worked tirelessly for Kashmiris is banned. Is being anti BJP anti national now (sic)?"