National Conference and CPI(M) today launched a scathing attack on Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat for his comments on Jammu and Kashmir, saying his annual speech at Nagpur was aimed at creating communal divide among the people of the state.
"Bhagwat was clearly unacquainted with the state's deep and glorious history of secularism and brotherhood and that any nefarious attempts by the RSS and BJP to spread communal and regional strife in the state would be defeated and exposed," NC state spokesperson Junaid Azim Mattu said in a statement here
He said all three regions in the state have the same constitutional rights and political representation and people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh have always worked together for the welfare and prosperity of the entire state.
"Bhagwat should introspect about the role of his organisation in persecuting Muslims and other minorities in the rest of the country instead of maligning the people of Jammu and Kashmir," the NC spokesperson said.
He also targeted the state government for its "unquestionable political and administrative patronage" to armed marches being carried out by RSS in various areas of the state, saying it was an "alarming trend".
"These marches are getting police protection at a time when Muharram processions are being showered with teargas shells in Kashmir...The administration should not violate its constitutional duties and responsibilities and ensure that people are not intimidated by the RSS under their protection and patronage," he said.
Senior CPI(M) leader and MLA M Y Tarigami said since RSS leaders are "prisoners of their regressive ideology", they cannot appreciate the ground realities in Jammu and Kashmir.
Tarigami, who represents Kulgam constituency in the state assembly, in a statement here, said the disruption of normal life and the ensuring suffering of the masses have completely escaped Bhagwat's "sight and mind".
"Despite this mindset one could have expected from Bhagwat a little concern for the killing, blinding and maiming of number of unarmed people, including school going children in Kashmir," Tarigami said.
He said the RSS leader has talked about the cross-border refugees and pleaded for the redressal of their grievances.
Tarigami said he "failed to understand" Bhagwat's comments about the "continuing discrimination with Jammu and Ladakh" as it was the RSS-led BJP which rules at the centre and is part of the coalition government in the state.
"One fails to understand who is discriminating whom?" he questioned.
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