There was uproar in the Legislative Assembly today on the use of force by police on protesting daily wagers with the legislators from ruling NC and opposition BJP criticising the police action.
Following the Question Hour, the opposition raised concerns over use of force against protesting daily wagers. They denounced the police action on the protesting daily wagers, who were demanding release of wages and regularisation of jobs
The BJP members staged a walkout as a ruckus erupted when the BJP and National Conference members engaged in a verbal duel over the matter.
While intervening, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah pointed to a BJP member and said, “As far as use of force by police on protesters is concerned, I would like to remind you that, unfortunately, neither you nor I have control over the police. Police is not in our control”.
“Instead of creating a ruckus inside the House, it would have been better if the opposition raised the matter a few kilometres from there (referring to the Raj Bhavan), where the actual control lies. It would have been more appropriate to go ‘there’ and ask why they were beaten up,” he said.
Omar said protesters were not beaten up on government orders and should not have been treated this way.
“These employees are ours. Their issues are genuine. This is not a financial issue but a humanitarian one. They should have been treated with humanity and sensitivity,” he said.
The CM said he believes the concern shown by all of them in the House must have reached the ears of the police.
“Next time, when these people fight for their rights, batons will not be used against them,” he added.