The recent assassination attempt on former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah has sparked intense criticism of the Lieutenant Governor's (LG) administration over serious lapses in law and order and security arrangements. The issue was fiercely debated in the J&K Legislative Assembly, where legislators from multiple political parties expressed deep concern and condemned the attack as a significant failure on the part of the administration, particularly the police and security agencies.
The two-hour discussion, facilitated by Assembly Speaker A R Rather, brought to light various shortcomings in the security protocols at the venue of the attack, a wedding function where Abdullah was present. Mir Saifullah, a member of the National Conference (NC), voiced strong disapproval of the administration's silence following the incident. He questioned why, despite the passage of several days, there had not been any official statement from the LG's office, the Home Department, or the police explaining the reasons behind the attack, the evident security lapse, and the absence of police personnel at the event.
Saifullah underscored the gravity of the situation, describing the attack as part of a larger conspiracy targeting Abdullah. He highlighted that the location of the attack was one where police presence should have been mandatory, yet there were glaring deficiencies in security measures. There were no frisking procedures or metal detectors in place, which are typically standard at functions attended by high-profile individuals. He demanded transparency regarding why the police were missing from the venue and sought information on any disciplinary action taken against the police officers responsible, including the Superintendent of Police (SP), Station House Officer (SHO), and the officer in charge of the local police post.
Another NC legislator, Aijaz Jan, who was accompanying Farooq Abdullah at the wedding, recalled the presence of several VIPs, including legislators, a former Director General of Police, and senior serving officers. Despite the high-profile attendance, Jan pointed out the alarming absence of any security checks. After the attack, when civilians and the Deputy Chief Minister's Chief Security Officer apprehended the assailant, they had to transport him to the police station themselves, using their own vehicle. Jan questioned the nature of the security arrangements, implying a lack of proper protocols and preparedness.
Nazir Gurezi, also from the National Conference, criticized the overall security climate in Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as a "police state" where law enforcement agencies exercise excessive control over whom to detain or prosecute, sometimes arbitrarily. He cited a recent example where the deputy chief minister had his security withdrawn just a day after making a statement, illustrating the precarious and unpredictable nature of security provisions in the region. Gurezi expressed dismay that even basic security equipment such as metal detectors was not deployed at an event attended by Abdullah, who enjoys the highest level of protection under the Z+ security category.
He urged the Speaker to form a House Committee to summon and question officials responsible for security, including the SHO, SP, and Inspector General of Police (IGP). Gurezi stressed the legislature's responsibility to ensure accountability and transparency, questioning the reliance on police reports alone. "We are powerless, but not so powerless that we cannot order a judicial enquiry and place its report before the House," he asserted, emphasizing the need for legislative oversight in the investigation.
Sham Lal Sharma, a BJP MLA, also condemned the security failure and called for accountability. He described the incident as a clear case of carelessness and negligence, especially given the presence of several VVIPs, including individuals with Z+ security cover. Sharma emphasized the need to restore the credibility of institutions, which he felt was eroding due to such lapses. He demanded a thorough investigation to identify and hold responsible those whose negligence allowed the attack to take place.
Waheed Ur Rehman Parra of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) echoed the sentiment that no individual with a known threat perception should be left vulnerable. Health Minister Sakeena Itoo also voiced concern, warning that if an attempt could be made on a leader of Abdullah's stature and security level, then the safety of others in the region was also at risk.
The discussion concluded with Speaker A R Rather emphasizing that the incident should not be treated as an ordinary law and order issue. He stated that the people of Jammu and Kashmir expect a "loud and clear message" that such breaches of security will not be tolerated. Rather expressed gratitude to the Home Minister and the Lt Governor for personally reaching out to Farooq Abdullah and assuring him of a thorough investigation. He conveyed hope that the probe would be completed promptly and that the accused would face exemplary punishment for their actions.
The collective voice from the Assembly highlighted a profound crisis in the region's security apparatus, raising critical questions about the effectiveness of current measures to protect key political figures and maintain public order. The failure to provide adequate security at a function attended by a former chief minister with Z+ protection exposed significant vulnerabilities and pointed to a lack of coordination and accountability among the police and security agencies under the LG's administration.
Legislators' demands for transparency, accountability, and a judicial inquiry reflect a broader concern about the erosion of institutional credibility and the need to restore public confidence in governance and law enforcement. The incident has not only shaken the political establishment but also sent ripples of unease throughout Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the fragile security environment and the urgent need for reforms to prevent such lapses in the future.
As the investigation proceeds, the Assembly and the public await clear answers and decisive action to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that the safety of all citizens, especially political leaders with known security risks, is guaranteed. The episode serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir's administration in maintaining law and order in a complex and sensitive region.