JKSA thanks HM, LG & DGP for dropping UAPA charges against 7 Kashmiri Students
Says DGP put his hands on their heads and gave them a chance to set themselves right
03/12/2023
Jammu/Srinagar,December 03 (KIP)- Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) here on Sunday expressed gratitude to Home Minister Amit Shah, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, and J&K Director General of Police RR Swain for dropping UAPA charges against seven Kashmiri students. Initially arrested and charged under UAPA after Australia defeated India in the World Cup on November 19, the students were released on Saturday late evening. The Association appreciated the authorities for carefully considering the broader implications of legal actions, especially when dealing with stringent laws like UAPA.
In a statement, National Convenor of the Association Nasir Khuehami acknowledged the sensitivity shown by the authorities in dropping the charges against these students. This step not only safeguards the rights of the Kashmiri students but also reinforces the ideals of equality and justice integral to a democratic society. It ensures these students have the secure future they deserve. The families of these students expressed satisfaction over their release, hailed as a measure of compassion. This decision saves their careers and serves as a crucial reminder for youth to be mindful of their actions.
Khuehami mentioned that the Association had earlier urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to consider removing 'Dilli ki Duri' and 'Dil ki Duri' by revoking UAPA charges against the seven Kashmiri students. It also urged Home Minister Amit Shah and J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha that the withdrawal of these serious charges would greatly contribute to alleviating 'Dil ki Duri' as envisaged by the Prime Minister.
The Association requested the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor and DGP RR Swain to recognize that such punishment could ruin the students' futures and asked them to give these students a chance to continue their studies. It also urged to restore faith in the ethical standing of the institution and the fair constitution of India. Khuehami thanked the State Police chief for personal intervention and carefully weighing the potential impacts of their actions on community relations, fostering an environment conducive to rebuilding trust rather than exacerbating existing strains.
He mentioned that with the release of the seven Kashmiri students, the government provided them an opportunity to make positive contributions, giving them a chance to bring them into the mainstream arena and play a pivotal role in reshaping their futures, connecting them with the hopes and aspirations of progress. He added that education possesses the transformative power to challenge perspectives, foster understanding, and bridge gaps between communities.
Association National Spokesperson Aadil Bhat said that the government's decision to take an empathetic stance reflects a commendable understanding of the situation. By dropping these charges, the UT government and the police have upheld justice and demonstrated a willingness to give the said students a chance to start their lives afresh. He thanked their counsel, Advocate Shafiq Bhat, and other lawyers who were defending the seven students. Bhat, on behalf of the association, also extended heartfelt congratulations to the seven students and their families on their release, wishing them the best in their future endeavours.
He mentioned that the withdrawal of charges is a beacon of hope for these young individuals, who now have a chance to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society. The Association believes that this thoughtful action not only rectifies an injustice but also paves the way for the betterment of the entire Kashmiri student community. He appealed to students of Jammu and Kashmir to work hard, indulge in meaningful education, and pursue their dreams as ambitious citizens of the country. As a society, we should aspire to create an environment where every individual, regardless of past actions, is afforded the chance to shape a positive and constructive future, Bhat added.