Sheikh Abdullah has been released. The Government of India’s order removing all restrictions on him was served on him this morning [January 2, New Delhi]. Immediately after his release, Sheikh Abdullah went to the Juma Masjid to offer Id prayers. He also called on the President, Dr. Zakir Hussain. He was accompanied by Mirza Afzal Beg, the Kashmir Plebiscite Front leader, who was released some days ago. Government has permitted Sheikh Abdullah to stay for some more time in the house in Ferozshah Kotla Lane in New Delhi, where he had been interned for the past two months. Addressing the Id congregation at the Motia Khan Idgah, Sheikh Abdullah said India and Pakistan should live in peace and friendship, settling their disputes with honour and goodwill. He urged Muslims in India to be as loyal to the country as any one else. The Sheikh asserted that he would fulfil the promises and pledges given to the people of Kashmir and would not retrace from them even at the cost of his life.
