Moderate Hurriyat Conference claims government removed its Facebook page

Moderate Hurriyat Conference on Monday claimed that authorities have removed its Facebook page, saying the government's move was "despotic".

Government officials, however, said they were not aware of Hurriyat page being removed from the social networking site. "The way in which government is now imposing restriction on social media sites is despotic and it amply demonstrates the severe curbs on the freedom of expression in Kashmir," Hurriyat media advisor Shahidul Islam said in a statement.

Terming the removal of official Hurriyat page from the social networking website as clear case of frustration, Islam claimed the government has already laid restrictions on the "peaceful activities of amalgam due to fear of its popularity among the general masses".

He said social media was regarded as a symbol of freedom of expression in the entire world. "Facebook too has gained popularity due to its connectivity with the entire world. However, the ban on Hurriyat activities on Facebook in Kashmir was direct attack on freedom to opine and express," he added.