Srinagar: People’s Democratic Party president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has castigated Abdul Rahim Rather, Speaker of the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, for imposing what she terms as a form of “martial law.”

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, Mufti emphasized that the role of an Assembly Speaker is to protect the rights of House members rather than act as a censor. She expressed her concerns on X, stating, “While Rather may be concerned with preserving the sanctity of Legislative proceedings, as Speaker, his primary role is to safeguard the rights of members, not to act as a censor.”

Mufti accused Rather of imposing martial law under the guise of his constitutional duties. Her comments come amid her participation in a signature campaign in Pulwama, south Kashmir, led by her daughter, Iltija Mufti, advocating for a liquor ban in the region.

Addressing reporters in Pulwama, Mufti urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to support the bills introduced by her party. She appealed to him to refrain from framing business rules that would legitimize the decisions made on August 5, 2019, which she deems unconstitutional.

Highlighting the need for open discussion on significant issues, Mufti called on the National Conference to take a decisive stance on Article 370 and 35A. “The people have the right to know about major issues,” she asserted, criticizing the lack of discussion on other important matters like tourism, youth welfare, and substance abuse.

Mufti reiterated her dedication to safeguarding public rights and ensuring government accountability, emphasizing the importance of addressing the citizens’ concerns.