PDP-BJP Govt working out ex-gratia package for 76 killed in unrest
TNN Bureau. Updated: 1/9/2017 1:15:13 AM
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ZAFAR CHOUDHARY
JAMMU: Amidst outpouring of anger as the Legislative Assembly and Council discuss Kashmir turmoil of 2015, the government is likely to announce an ex-gratia compensation for the families of those died in confrontation with the security forces.
Around 100 people, including women and children, died in confrontation with security forces following killing of Hizbul Mujahideen militant Burhan Wani on July 8 last year. However, the government has officially confirmed death of only 76 persons as few other may have died of reasons other than confrontation with the security forces.
Sources told The News Now that top officials of state government were hectic consultations with officials of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for working out a compensation package. “The package of compensation for the families of those who died during last year’s Kashmir protests is being worked out in mutual consultations between state and the central government”, said an official privy to the development.
The PDP-BJP coalition government is working out a package of Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia relief to the respective families against each person killed in protests last year. The government is also working out a package of relief for those sustained serious injuries. However, sources claimed, the Centre is believed to have declined to support any move of compensation against loss of properties or loss to businesses.
It is understood that Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti may make such an announcement during her reply to discussion on Kashmir situation in the Legislative Assembly and the Council. Following an adjournment motion by the Opposition National Conference and Congress, the Legislative Council are discussing the Kashmir turmoil since January 3, where every Member, many even from the treasury benches, have dome down heavily on the government.
The Chief Minister is expected to reply to the motion on Monday.
It may be mentioned here that Omar Abdullah’s government has also launched ex-gratia relief package for 124 persons killed during 2010 unrest.