Scores of activists under the banner of Ganatantra Suraksha Abhijan expressing deep concern over the issues in Kashmir and violation of civil and democratic rights urged President Ram Nath Kovind to intervene. They gathered at PMG Square here and submitted a memorandum to the President through the Governor.
Expressing their shock over the recent development in Kashmir especially over the suffering of the people of Kashmir who are being almost disconnected in many ways from rest of India since August 5, they demanded restoration of normal situation in Kashmir with restoration of all kinds of communication links with the people and withdrawal of overwhelming presence of military and paramilitary forces in the civilians.
They said that the downsizing of Kashmir into two union territories without consulting its State Assembly and the citizens in general is a direct attack on our federal character and pose possible threat to the concept of unity in diversity.
"This has created apprehension and doubt among States, other nationalities and ethnic groups who have been enjoying special provisions for many historical and political reasons. We condemn such undemocratic move of the Govt. We demand that citizen’s right to express their views should be restored," they said in the memorandum.
Besides, they demanded strong enforcement of existing laws against anti-social elements, such as self-proclaimed Go Rakshak (private cow protection force), to control violence in public and enactment of new national laws to control mob lynching.
They also sought protection to the activists, writers, reformers, rationalists who voice of ssent.