Shahnawaz dares separatist leaders to prove popularity

Jammu, June 14 (UNI) Former Union Minister and BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain threw a challenge to separatist leaders of Jammu and Kashmir, including the Hurriyat Conference to prove their popularity by participating in the democratic process in the state.

Talking to UNI, Mr Hussain said the time had come when these leaders should prove their popularity among the Kashmiris. Whenever there are elections, these leaders flee from the field out of fear of getting exposed. Let their popularity be tested by the people, he asserted.

Answering a question on the demolition of Sri Krishna temple, the only worship place of Hindus at Wachoowali area of Lahore for constructing a palatial shopping complex, Mr Hussain termed it an unfortunate act and a wrong step, adding the Pakistan Government must respect and protect the places of worship of the minority communities.

Mr Hussain, who was here in connection with the party's week long Satyagraha on 'Save Doda- Save Nation', also criticised the state government for registering criminal cases against the party's senior leaders Mr Vinay Katiyar and Mr Sahib Singh Verma and termed it a politically motivated step.

UNI RKS SHB VV1751