Govt playing blame game: Hakeem Yaseen on Sidra bulldozer controversy

• Says affected tribal families were not informed before demolition action
• Demands rehabilitation and compensation for families ahead of Eid-ul-Azha
• Questions government’s “double standards” and calls for accountability over Sidra drive

SRINAGAR: People’s Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Friday termed the recent bulldozer action against tribal families in Sidra as “highly unfortunate,” saying the move was against both humanity and the law.

In a statement issued here, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen said that even in cases involving accused persons or alleged violators, the law requires prior notice and due process before any action is taken. However, he said, in the Sidra case, the affected families were allegedly not informed in advance and were left devastated after the demolition drive.

He said the incident has now turned into a political blame game, with different wings of the government passing responsibility onto each other instead of owning accountability for the action.

“One section of the government claims it has no knowledge about who ordered or carried out the demolition, while another is talking about forming committees and promising justice. This contradiction itself raises serious questions,” he said.

Hakeem said the ruling government cannot selectively distance itself from actions that have sparked public outrage. “When something positive happens, the government takes full credit for it, but when something negative takes place, they try to disown responsibility. The government cannot have double standards on such sensitive matters,” he remarked.

The PDF President expressed concern over the plight of the affected tribal families, especially elderly persons, women and children, who he said are facing immense hardship after the demolition drive. He added that many families have been rendered shelterless and are living under distressing conditions.

Calling for immediate humanitarian intervention, Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen urged the administration to ensure rehabilitation of all affected families before Eid-ul-Azha. “With the festival approaching, these families are suffering emotionally and financially. The government must act without delay to provide them relief, compensation and proper rehabilitation,” he said.

He further appealed to the administration to adopt a humane and lawful approach while dealing with issues concerning poor and marginalized communities, particularly tribal families, and ensure that justice is delivered in a transparent and fair manner.