Hizb supports PDP's self-rule; asks troops withdrawal

Srinagar, Aug 18: The Hizbul Mujahideen, the single largest indigenous militant group operating in Jammu and Kashmir, has supported the Peoples Democratic Party's self-rule proposal, saying this could be implemented only after India and Pakistan withdraws troops from the areas of the state under their respective control.

In an interview with a local news agency, Kashmir News Service, Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin said self-rule could help in leading towards a final solution to the vexed issue.

He described self-rule as governance of the people of Jammu and Kashmir which could be attained only after withdrawal of troops by India and Pakistan from areas of the state under their control.

''We will encourage any move leading to withdrawal of troops from both the parts of Jammu and Kashmir,'' the Hizb chief added.

Once there would be complete withdrawal of troops, he said the people will take over the governance. ''Self-rule is not a solution, but a part of the resolution process.'' He said self-rule could not be envisaged as a solution amid presence of more than seven lakh Indian troops in Jammu and Kashmir.

However, Salahuddin said right to self-determination was a complete solution to the Kashmir issue.

UNI

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