Militant’s son isn’t a militant: CM

Srinagar, Jan 2: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday stressed expediting the verification process for passports and government jobs.

“I believe a militant’s son is not a militant. We cannot deny passports or NOCs to those whose relatives were in any way affiliated with militancy,” he said.

Omar said that during his first stint as the CM, he ended the blacklisting system.

“I have taken up the matter with concerned authorities and several steps have been taken to ease formalities. Though this is not my domain in the present hybrid governance system, I have taken up the matter with the CID chief,” he said.

In response to a question about the detention of journalists, Majid Hyderi and Irfan Mehraj besides the termination of several government employees, the CM said, “I will look into these issues.”

On the occasion, he underscored the commitment of his government to support a free press.

“I want the media to be free to question us and enjoy accessibility. Journalists can get an atmosphere where they can work freely without fear,” CM Omar said.

On the cases of journalists who have received adverse verification reports for media accreditation, he said he had taken up the matter with ADGP CID to review cases.

The CM also assured to take measures for reinstatement of the Press Club in Srinagar.