No talks with separatists: Dy CM

Vikram Sharma

Tribune News Service

Jammu, July 20

The government has rejected any likelihood of talks with separatists or other fundamental groups in the Valley unless the level of terrorism and violence comes down substantially.

“Already some attempts were made to reach out to separatists and other fundamental groups but they shut their doors to the delegations from the Centre. Besides, there is a clear message from the Centre that unless the Valley returns to normal, the government will not take any initiative for talks,” said Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh talking to The Tribune.

He said the time was not opportune as well as atmosphere not conducive to take any step for dialogue. Admitting that the scenario in the Valley was steadily changing, Nirmal Singh said people were trying to come out of the “false consciousnesses” created over the years by the forces inimical to peace and stability in the region.

On the frequent killing of soldiers on the border as well as while battling insurgency in the Valley, the Deputy Chief Minister expressed anguish.

“The unfortunate killings like those of Lt Ummar Fayaz, Naik Mudasser Ahmed, Lance Naik Mohammad Naseer and DSP Mohammed Ayub Pandith are highly condemnable. But these have also started alienating people of Kashmir from the separatist propaganda and radicalisation supported by the Hurriyat and its mentor,” said Nirmal Singh.

When asked why the BJP had not given a serious thought to scrapping Article 370, which has been the greatest impediment for the state’s total integration with India, the Deputy Chief Minister said the issue was under consideration and needed a constitutional amendment.

“Since it would be a constitutional amendment, the Bill would have to be passed by both Houses of Parliament with two-thirds majority and has to be signed by the President,” said Nirmal Singh, adding that first it would have to be passed by the “constituent Assembly” of J&K before it is sent to Parliament.