Srinagar, Jan 12: A day after former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti escaped unhurt when her vehicle met with an accident in Anantnag, the People’s Democratic Party on Friday alleged that there was inadequate management of the travel convoy, especially with regard to local road clearances for a Z Plus protected leader.
The accident left Mehbooba’s driver and personal security officer injured, while the vehicle was badly damaged.
The PDP on Friday said serious security “lapses” have come to light after the accident.
“The accident involving Mufti’s vehicle points towards the lack of detailed drill for a Z+ protected person travelling on a highway that remains busy and has a history of targeted attacks,” Party General Secretary and senior leader Mehboob Beg said in a statement.
“Against the backdrop of Kashmir’s turbulent history and the vulnerability of mainstream leaders to targeted attacks, any compromise in security measures is a matter of grave concern. The incident demands a thorough examination, considering the potential risks associated with compromising the security of a former chief minister.” Beg added
He said equally alarming is the delayed arrangement of an alternative car from Srinagar, which took an hour to materialize.
Beg said Z+ security protocols typically include an optional car in the escort, emphasising a serious lapse in preparedness that cannot be overlooked.
“A compromised security detail for a former Chief Minister not only jeopardises the safety of the individual but also raises questions about the broader commitment to ensuring the security and stability of the region,” the PDP leader said.
He said it was imperative that political disagreements did not overshadow the imperative to safeguard the lives of leaders who play a crucial role in the socio-political fabric of Kashmir.
“These lapses demand immediate attention and clarification from the authorities to ensure the safety and security of our public leaders… The absence of a police statement on the matter further raises concerns, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in addressing these security lapses,” the PDP leader said.
“The incident involving Mehbooba Mufti underscores the necessity for a re-evaluation and reinforcement of security measures for all mainstream leaders in Kashmir,” Beg said, adding that “authorities are urged to conduct a thorough investigation into the lapses, ensuring that any shortcomings are addressed promptly to prevent the recurrence of such incidents and to uphold the safety of political leaders in the region.”
Beg also highlighted the concern about the adverse security report of the Khimber residence of the former chief minister.
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other leaders have already called for an investigation.
