File photo of Masarat Alam
The Home Ministry has sought a report from the Jammu and Kashmir Government on circumstances leading to release of separatist leader Masarat Alam from prison, who has over 15 cases pending against him.
Despite being a Sunday, officials of the Kashmir division in the Home Ministry worked overtime to gather all facts from the state government on the issue which has led to strain in the PDP-BJP alliance.
The ministry wanted to know the reasons that led to release of 44-year-old Mr Alam, who spearheaded 2010 agitation, from the Baramulla jail last night.
According to sources, Mr Alam had around 15 cases pending against him which included those registered under section 120 and 121 of Ranbir Penal Code (waging war against the country) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
With Opposition parties in Parliament already up in arms over Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed's statement last Sunday when he credited Pakistan, Hurriyat Conference and militant outfits for smooth conduct of elections in the state, the Government expects disruption over this development as well when the session resumes tomorrow after the Holi break.
Home Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to outline the Government position on the issue which has kicked up a political storm.
The sources said Union Home Secretary L C Goyal had also spoken to Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police K Rajendra to ascertain the reasons behind the release of Mr Alam, who has also been booked by police under criminal conspiracy for 2010 agitation during which about 120 men lost their lives.
In Jammu, the Police Chief held a meeting with the Chief Minister over the issue.
As many as six policemen were promoted when Mr Alam had been arrested in October 2010 from Harwan area on the outskirts of Srinagar city besides distribution of Rs 10 lakh cash reward to the cops as well as to the informers.