In a terse rejoiner to Pakistan over its foreign affairs minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s statement on Kashmir, the external affairs ministry spokesman said, “Pakistan should take credible and effective action against infiltration from across the Line of Control and dismantle the terror infrastructure that exists in the territory under its control. This would be an important contribution towards safeguarding the welfare of the people of J&K, who suffer the consequences of terrorism fomented from across the LoC and the international border,” the spokesman noted. He added: “India reiterates its commitment to resolving issues of mutual concern with Pakistan through dialogue and peaceful means. However, Pakistan must fulfil its solemn commitment of not allowing territory under its control to be used for terrorism directed against India in any manner. This would be in the interest of Pakistan and of the international community.”
Earlier on Friday, in a statement put up on the Pakistan foreign ministry’s website, Mr Qureshi said Pakistan has sought full resumption of the dialogue process with India. “Pakistan wants a constructive, sustained and result-oriented dialogue with India on all issues, including the J&K dispute,” he noted.
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CPM: Halt firing on protesters
Age Correspondent
New Delhi
The CPI(M) on Friday accused the government of “dithering” in taking steps to restore normalcy in Kashmir. It demanded immediate halt of police firing on stone-throwing protesters, release of the arrested youths and initiation of talks with all sections without any conditions. The party also demanded a relief package for the injured and rehabilitation for those permanently incapacitated, besides steps to re-start economic activities.
“Most importantly, the government should initiate a political process of dialogue with all sections in the state. Such a dialogue is possible if no preconditions are set by any side,” CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury said in an editorial in the forthcoming issue of party organ People’s Democracy. “The delay in announcing the Centre’s measures has proved costly ... This has come in handy for those elements in the ruling establishment who do not want any major steps taken towards installing confidence among the people”, he said. “What led to the dithering by the Centre in announcing the much-needed measures can only be surmised,” Mr Yechury said referring to reported differences in the government over AFSPA.