Attack on Mirwaiz's house to derail peace process

Srinagar, Jan 15: A rifle grenade attack on the house of Hurriyat Conference (HC) Chairman Mirwaiz Moulvi Omar Farooq by militants here today was an attempt to derail the peace process, the Inspector General of Police (Kashmir range) said.

IG G M Sahai said at the spot it was a rifle grenade attack fired from some unknown place towards the house of Mirwaiz, adding, the attack was an attempt to derail the peace process. However, Mirwaiz and other members of his family were not present in the house.

The investigation had been launched to identify the militants responsible for the attack. However, no conclusion had been drawn so far about the group behind the attack, he said.

In reply to a question he said militants will certainly try to step-up their activities in the Valley, particularly in the city, on the eve of Republic Day (RD) being celebrated on January 26.

The recent grenade attacks in the city were also part of their plan to cause disturbances on the eve of RD.

When asked if security of the Hurriyat leaders will be further tightened, Mr Sahai said everything will be discussed in detail.

He was seen directing the guards posted in and outside the house of Mirwaiz to further tighten their vigil.

UNI