This refers to the news regarding the decision of the JKLF Chief Yasin Malik to stay away from the talks with the Kashmir Committee headed by Ram Jethmalani which has been deputed on “Mission Kashmir.” It is not understood why these committees come to Kashmir. It is premature for them to talk to the leadership to arrive at a solution to the Kashmir issue. First, the situation turns worse in Kashmir. Young children are arrested. There is destruction of property and restriction on movement of people. After this, these committees visit the Valley to hold meetings with the freedom movement leaders. Had they been sincere they should have raised their voices in the Indian Parliament and other platforms against the atrocities and human rights violations in Kashmir, like they do in other parts of India. They should have exerted their influence on the Government of India to release all the people arrested under different harsh laws and punish the culprits responsible for killing of youth in Kashmir. I never heard Ram Jethmalani speak a few words in support of Kashmiris and against human rights violations in the Valley. I fully endorse Yasin Malik’s views. There is nothing to be discussed with Kashmiri leadership at present. These people have to first discuss the issue with GOI and make the atmosphere conducive for discussion with the Kashmiri leadership. 

Maqsood Ahmad Shahdad      
Boulevard, Srinagar

Lastupdate on : Wed, 8 Jun 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Wed, 8 Jun 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Thu, 9 Jun 2011 00:00:00 IST