Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s remark that restoration of greater autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir could be considered within the ambit of the Constitution may have enraged the BJP, VHP and like-minded parties and groups, but neither the remark nor his pledge that a solution to the state’s problems would be sought through “internal and external” dialogue and economic initiatives could impress the separatists, his actual audience.
The separatists reacting particularly to the Prime Minister’s job and economic packages offer said these cannot be substitute for the right to self-determination. The Prime Minister had on Tuesday, while unveiling a fresh initiative to address the unrest in Kashmir Valley, urged the people to “give peace a chance” and promised a sustained “internal and external” dialogue for resolution of the state’s problems. He also said, “If there is consensus among political parties on autonomy for the state, then it can be considered within the ambit of the Constitution.”
Syed Ali Shah Geelani said he did not see anything new in the Prime Minister’s speech. “He also failed to acknowledge the real issue for which Kashmiris have taken to streets and rendered countless sacrifices. It is not jobs or economic packages or, for that matter, so-called internal autonomy for which people are sacrificing their lives. None of these can be substitutes for the promised right of self-determination,” he said.
The leader reiterated his demand of withdrawal of troops, repeal of AFSPA and other “draconian” laws, release of political prisoners and initiating a tripartite dialogue on Kashmir with the relevant UN Security Council resolution made the basis of the discourse.
Sayeda Aasiya Andrabi, the leader of all-women Dukhtaran-e-Millat (daughters of the faith) said, “Kashmiris are not beggars. Our natural resources are being robbed by India,” she said.
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JD-U praises PM on J&K
Age Correspondent
New Delhi
Aug. 11: The JD(U) on Wednesday congratulated Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for taking the initiative to solve the Kashmir problem. The party also reiterated its stand against the use of the Army to tackle the problem in the Valley.
“There is need to find a political solution along with the implementation of Article 370 of the Constitution. The Valley needs more autonomy. Excesses against the innocents should stop,” K.C. Tyagi said.