Srinagar, Apr 22: National Conference leader and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abullah Saturday asked the government to stop ‘harassing’ people in Poonch for their ‘failures.

He said innocent people should not be harassed during the operation that has been started in Poonch district of Jammu region.

Pertinently, five Indian soldiers were killed in a militant attack in Poonch two days back. After the attack government forces have launched a massive search operation.

Farooq Abdullah who offered Eid prayers at Hazratbal Srinagar told reporters that innocent people are being arrested and then tortured. “It is their (govt’s) fault. Don’t arrest innocent people in Poonch. It should be stopped,” he said.

In response to a question, Farooq Abdullah expressed regret for not allowing Eid prayers at historic Jamia Masjid.

“It shouldn’t have happened at first place. Even Mirwaiz Umar Farooq should be released and allowed to give sermons from the pulpit so that people can benefit from his sermons,” Farooq Abdullah said. [KNT]