Jammu, Feb 20, KNT: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said that the recent order issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar regarding collection of donations during Ramzan was not an arbitrary decision but was taken after consultations with leaders of the Muslim community.
Speaking in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, the Chief Minister said that the issue had been raised by Bandipora MLA Nizamuddin Bhat and Ahmed Mir, who alleged that the government was interfering in religious matters.
Clarifying the matter, Omar Abdullah said that upon inquiry it was found that the Deputy Commissioner acted after discussions with members of the Muslim community, who sought appropriate measures to prevent fake NGOs from emerging during Ramzan and collecting money fraudulently.
He said the order was aimed at regulating donation collection to prevent misuse and has been welcomed by the Imam of the Jama Masjid of Kishtwar and other Muslim clerics and religious leaders in the district.
The Chief Minister urged members not to politicize every administrative decision and said the intent of the order was to safeguard public interest and ensure transparency in charitable activities during the holy month. [KNT]
