Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference (NC) vice president Omar Abdullah on Wednesday urged the Centre to open a dialogue with separatists and Pakistan, while reacting to Army chief General Bipin Rawat’s call for talks with the Taliban.
“If the Army Chief can advocate for talks with Taliban then why different standards when it comes to our own people? Accept peace offer from Pakistan, initiate dialogue with Hurriyat and other stakeholders put an end to the vicious cycle of violence in J&K,” Ms. Mufti tweeted.
Mr. Abdullah also accused the Centre of applying different yardsticks in J&K.
“We bat for talks with Taliban, autonomy for Tibet and Tamil areas of Sri Lanka yet we are unwilling to look at engagement or political initiatives in J&K. Why is our policy all about “do as we say, don’t do as we do”? Engagement for Taliban, Operation All-Out for Kashmir,” Mr. Abdullah tweeted.
Gen. Rawat, while speaking at a panel discussion at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, pitched for “unconditional talks with Taliban”.
India, Pak. should consult Norway
Meanwhile, senior Congress leader and former Union minister Saifuddin Soz welcomed Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg’s “comprehensive statement on Kashmir”.
“She is right in saying there is no military solution to Kashmir and the solution can come only through dialogue and discussion,” said Prof. Soz.
He said keeping Norway’s tested credentials for promotion of peace in view, India and Pakistan could together benefit if Norway is consulted on resolution of the conflict. “The civil society leaders in both India and Pakistan should draw inspiration from the leadership of Norway to promote peace in the sub-continent,” he added.
