Post Parliament debate, separatists show willingness to talk

The separatist leaders of Kashmir have shown willingness to have unconditional talks with the Centre provided the latter recognised that Kashmir is a political problem and needs an out-of-the-box solution.

Moderate Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq told the media that people of Kashmir want peace and the first step to restore peace would be possible if the Centre acknowledges that Kashmir is a dispute that needs to be solved with a sincere heart.

The Central government has shown wiliness to initiate a dialogue in order to start the process of permanent peace. The separatists have given positive vibes and have decided not to show any kind of negative approach for the talks.

Mirwaiz, however, added that the Centre was not showing any seriousness for the talks and was busy in deflecting the issue by talking about development. 

He further said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are the main stakeholders and their views must be taken into account before reaching any solution.

Meanwhile, hardline Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani has said that the Centre should stop Pakistan bashing and instead acknowledge that there is a genuine sentiment in Jammu and Kashmir for freedom. Geelani further said, “Kashmir issue is a globally recognised international dispute with India being a signatory to it. Along with India, Pakistan too is a basic and important stake holder and it has every right to ascertain and establish their right to intervene.”

Geelani said the recent discussion and debate in Parliament was a mere drama and part of the “political gimmicks” that have been going on for the last seven decades. 

Showing his willingness for dialogue, he reiterated his stand that unless India accepts the disputed nature of Jammu and Kashmir and starts the process of demilitarisation, peace will remain a distant dream.