J&K: BJP Suspends 9 Functionaries Over Anantnag Rally Slogans

Srinagar, Aug 7: The BJP on Friday suspended nine party functionaries over controversial slogans raised during a procession in Anantnag celebrating the abrogation of Article 370, a day after the party disowned the event and said it was neither organised nor authorised by its district unit.

The action followed widespread circulation of videos from the rally on social media, which triggered criticism over objectionable remarks allegedly made against women.

The BJP said the procession was held at Housing Colony Khanabal on August 5 without authorisation from the Anantnag district unit or requisite permission from the district administration.

Taking “serious note” of the remarks, the party described them as unacceptable and contrary to its discipline, dignity and principles.

Following deliberations with BJP J&K leaders, including State General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul, State General Secretary Anwar Khan, spokesperson and Anantnag district Prabhari Altaf Thakur, and members of the district core committee, the party decided to initiate disciplinary action against those found responsible for organising and participating in the rally.

The suspended functionaries include District General Secretary Nisar Ahmad Bhat, District Secretary Khursheed Ahmad Sofi, District Secretary Aabida Rafiq, Shangus constituency president Irshad Ahmad Malik, former district vice-president Mohd Maqbool Ganie and Pahalgam constituency president Waheed Ahmad Itoo.

District Secretary Nisar Ahmad Hakeem, Kisan Morcha District Secretary Feroz Ahmad Hajam and Mahila Morcha District Secretary Sabrooza Akhter were also removed from their respective organisational posts and responsibilities.

The BJP said all nine had been removed from their organisational responsibilities with immediate effect and their primary membership of the party suspended until further orders.

The party, however, did not mention senior BJP leader and former MLC Sofi Yousuf, who led the procession.

A video of the rally showed participants raising the slogan “Maklow Azi Hund Te Fazi Hund Azat”, which was criticised as derogatory towards Kashmiri women.

Leaders of the ruling National Conference condemned the slogans, accused the BJP of insulting Kashmiri women and demanded action against those responsible. (Agencies)