Home Minister Amit Shah told new Indian Police Service (IPS) officers, “We politicians get a chance to work for five years, while you get a chance to serve the country for 30 years”
The government earlier this month removed special status from Jammu and Kashmir and divided it into two union territories. Restrictions are still in place at many parts of the state and over 400 politicians, including former Chief Ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti are under arrest.
“Congratulations and thanks to the families (of IPS officers) for all the support they have given to IPS officers and the country,” Mr Shah said.
Amit Shah
✔@AmitShahLaid a wreath and paid my respects to the IPS Officers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
Mr Shah’s address to the freshly-minted IPS officers comes on a day when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders are flying to Jammu and Kashmir, despite a warning by the government to stay away.
Ghulam Nabi Azad and Anand Sharma are the senior Congress leaders other than Rahul Gandhi who will fly to Jammu and Kashmir. Mr Azad was twice stopped at Jammu airport, most recently on Tuesday, and was “forcibly” sent back to Delhi both times.
“We are all responsible political parties and leaders. We are not going to break any law. The Jammu and Kashmir situation is very concerning. It’s close to 20 days. No news for 20 days. The government says the situation is normal. But then they don’t allow leaders to go? Haven’t seen such contradiction… If it’s normal, why aren’t we allowed?” Mr Azad said as he left for the airport this morning in Delhi,
Prasanta Patnaik