Political parties ask govt to come clear on ‘census’ seeking details of residents

Srinagar, Jan 30: Political parties in Kashmir have asked the J&K government to come clear on an ongoing “census” in Kashmir, which seeks names, phone numbers and if a family member has any terror links.
For the past one week, one page unsigned forms were being distributed among the residents in several parts of the valley seeking information about the families. The forms are being distributed to residents through mohalla committees and they are being asked to return it to the police.
CPI(M) leader  M  Y Tarigami alleged that the ‘census ‘ has stirred up anxiety among  the people.
“An unusual census  being conducted by the police and security forces have stirred up anxiety among  the people. Clueless residents perceive it as another attempt of state to tighten control. The government must clarify the type and purpose of this census,” Tarigami said in a post on X.
On Monday, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) had also expressed deep concern regarding the recent initiative by J&K Police to collect personal information from residents across various parts of Kashmir.
“This intrusive measure, which involves soliciting details such as individuals’ names, vehicles, and contact information, has triggered widespread panic among citizens,” PDP said.  “People’s Democratic Party vehemently condemns this alarming development, denouncing it as a direct assault on the inherent rights and identity of ordinary Kashmiris.”
The party urged the administration to respect the privacy of individual citizens and alleviate the fears gripping the general public.
There has been no clarification from the police about the ‘census’.
However, a police officer termed it a routine exercise.