Srinagar, July 29: Asserting that Army is calling shots in Jammu and Kashmir, Hurriyat Conference (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Sunday said the visit of Defence Minister and Army Chief clearly suggests that New Delhi wants to strengthen the institution of Army in Kashmir.
 “Martial law is in place in Jammu and Kashmir and State Government is helpless before Army at every level,” Mirwaiz said, adding that role of state government is confined to running petty administrative affairs.
 Mirwaiz reiterated his demand for complete withdrawal of forces and repeal of black laws. Taking Chief Minister Omar Abdullah head-on over human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir, Mirwaiz said; “On one hand he (CM) talks of lifting black laws, while on the other same laws are being used to kill Kashmiris.”
 “Leave aside lifting AFSPA or other black laws, this government can’t take a small Confidence Building Measure (CBM),” Mirwaiz added.
 Accusing New Delhi of toeing intransigent line over resolution of Kashmir issue, Mirwaiz said the peace would remain elusive in the region until New Delhi demonstrates flexibility.
 “It is high time for India and Pakistan to resolve Kashmir issue for stability of south Asia,” he added.
Claiming that Kashmir is under cultural onslaught, Mirwaiz said that it is moral duty of every person to protect Kashmiri culture and tradition.

Lastupdate on : Sun, 29 Jul 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sun, 29 Jul 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Mon, 30 Jul 2012 00:00:00 IST