Kathua rape-murder case: Under-fire PDP to hold special meeting on Saturday

Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday reiterated that justice would be served to the eight-year-old girl who was raped and murdered in a temple in January. (File)

CONCERNED OVER the rising number of civilian casualties in security operations and the backing of some BJP leaders for the Hindu Ekta Manch, which was formed in support of the Kathua rape accused, the ruling PDP has convened a special meeting of party leaders Saturday.

All of the party’s ministers, legislators and senior leaders have been asked to attend the meeting “positively”. “We have received an invite for the meeting. The meeting is scheduled for Saturday afternoon. We haven’t been informed yet about the agenda,” said a party legislator.

Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti’s office confirmed that a Cabinet meeting has been called for Monday, including ministers of the PDP’s alliance partner BJP.

PDP sources said the party would chalk out a strategy to deal with the situation. “It is a grave issue and has the tendency to polarise,” said a party leader. “We will plan our strategy,” he said.

PDP sources said the party is also worried about the situation in the Valley, especially the civilian killings in Shopian and Kulgam.

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