Government Must Release Him Immediately:Rafique Rather
Baramulla, June 5:
Senior PDP leader and District President Baramulla, Mohd Rafique Rather, has expressed serious concern over the continued detention of PDP leader and social activist Talib Hussain Choudhary, demanding his immediate release.
In a statement issued today,Rafique Rather said that Talib Hussain Choudhary has consistently been a voice for the unheard, marginalized, and underprivileged sections of society. He said that raising genuine public issues and seeking justice for affected people cannot be treated as a crime in a democratic setup.
Referring to the recent demolition of around 50 houses in the Sidhra area, allegedly belonging to members of the Gujjar and Bakerwall community, Rather said that Talib merely highlighted the plight of the affected families and sought justice and rehabilitation for them.
“Instead of listening to the genuine grievances of the affected people and providing them relief, the authorities have chosen to target those who raise their voice in support of the victims. Such actions are unfortunate and undermine democratic values,” Rather said.
He maintained that peaceful advocacy for justice and protection of the rights of vulnerable communities should be respected rather than criminalized.
Rafique Rather urged the government to review the matter and ensure the immediate release of Talib Hussain Choudhary. He also appealed to the authorities to address the concerns of the affected families and take steps for their rehabilitation and welfare.
“The continued detention of Talib Hussain Choudhary is deeply concerning and sends a wrong message to those who believe in peaceful and democratic means of highlighting public issues,” Rather added.