Srinagar, Feb 4 - Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has come down heavily on those threatening the three young girls who have formed the Valley's only rock band, Pragaash, and Monday promised police investigations into the threats.

He encouraged the girls, saying their talent should not be stymied by "a handful of morons who are trying to silence them".

Late Sunday evening, Kashmir's Grand Mufti (head priest) Mufti Bashiruddin had issued a 'fatwa' (religious decree) against the singing of the girls, and criticised the government for "trying to encourage a shameless act".

The chief minister, however, was unfazed and poured scorn on the 'fatwa'.

"Given the importance people attach to the fatwas of the Grand Mufti, the less said the better," he tweeted.

The three local girls formed the Valley's only girls' rock band last year. The girls had earlier received threats on social media. Local police have begun investigations into the threats, and the girls have taken a break from performing.

The girls' band attracted public attention when they finished third in a local competition, 'Battle of Bands' last month. (IANS)