Breaking silence, Omar Abdullah seeks probe into Gen's claims

Former deputy chief minister and senior PDP leader Muzaffar Hussian Baig on Wednesday announced that he would not contest the next assembly elections unless the Centre orders a credible probe into former army chief Gen (retd) VK Singh’s claims to clear the air.

Baig’s decision comes on a day when J&K chief minister Omar Abdullah broke his silence and pitched for a thorough probe. Meanwhile, controversial agriculture minister Ghulam Hassan Mir expressed willingness to face the inquiry over his dealings.

“I think no self-respecting person would like to contest elections unless a credible probe is ordered... If they do not hold an inquiry, every mainstream leader or party would be suspected.  I think not only contesting polls will be difficult but it will also be quite embarrassing,” Baig, who represents Baramulla constituency, told dna.

“Preferably, the Supreme court should conduct a probe. If a CBI probe is ordered then it should be monitored by the Supreme Court,” he said.

Echoing his sentiments, Omar said Gen VK Singh’s allegations cannot be dismissed out of hand and they require further investigation. “This matter is being taken up by me formally with the government of India for further action. Effort is being made to vilify  all mainstream political parties. The Centre needs to come clean on this issue and conduct a threadbare inquiry,” he said.

He noted that most of them have no financial dealings whatsoever with the army. “The General’s statement has done nothing but create untold problems for mainstream parties particularly those operating in the valley,” he said.

Under fire, Mir too offered to face inquiry. “If a fair probe is held, the truth will come out and I would stand vindicated. I offer myself to an open and time-bound probe to look into these allegations..., ” he said in a signed statement.