J&K scribes take exception to Advani's remarks

By Shujaat Bukhari

SRINAGAR, MAY 14. The Kashmir Press, representative body of the Srinagar-based editors, has strongly reacted to a reported statement of the Union Home Minister, Mr. L. K. Advani, over the inquiry into the assault on journalists by BSF personnel in Magam on Thursday last.

At an emergency meeting of the Kashmir Press chaired by Mr. Sanaullah Butt of Aftaab, the attack was strongly condemned. Taking note of Mr. Advani's statement, which appeared in a Jammu- based English daily, the editors said ``it is irresponsible.'' The statement had created strong doubts about the impartiality of the inquiry ordered into the assault.

Mr. Advani had reportedly said that while taking action against the erring BSF DIG, Mr. A. K. Mullick, his performance in anti- insurgency operations would have to be taken into consideration.

In a statement issued after the meeting, the journalists said they would wait for the outcome of the inquiry. If it was not fair and completed quickly, there was no option except resorting to direct action. On Mr. Advani's reported remarks, a scribe said ``the Government has given vent to its mind. So there are apprehensions of the probe being unfair.''

Condemning a ``concerted campaign by some vested interests'' to protect Mr. Mullick, the journalists said there was an attempt to create confusion saying the officer was not ``mentally fit.'' It was surprising how a mentally `deranged' officer was posted in such a sensitive place.

Meanwhile, a report said that the DIG had been summoned to Delhi for further investigations. The inquiry officer, Mr. K. Vijay Kumar, IG (headquarters) of the BSF in Delhi, concluded his two- day assignment yesterday. Police also has begun investigations into the case and recorded the statement of all the 17 victims.

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