No military solution to Kashmir, reduce troops presence, Mehbooba

Srinagar, Feb 26 (UNI) Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti today said reduction of troops and revocation of Armed Forces Special Powers Act(AFSPA) from Jammu and Kashmir will be the biggest Confidence Building Measure (CBM) and substantial forward movement in the ongoing peace process.

The ground situation in the state is condusive to take these measures now as there could be no military solution to Kashmir problem, she told mediapersons at her official residence today.

She said pro-people measures, including withdrawal of POTA, control over Special Operatin Group (SOG) and other security agencies, resumption of bus service with Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) during the four-year rule of the PDP- Congress coalition government in the state has brought a change in the ground situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

People reposed their faith in the democracy which was evident from the 76 per cent turnout during the by-elections in the valley, where as it was just about four per cent in 1996, she said.

She added that before the coalition government came in power, people were alleging about the attrocities of security forces, now they are complaining about damaged roads, unemployment and other local problems, which clearly indicates that people feel a sense of security now.

Ms Mehbooba, said the peace process has generated a ray of hope in the Kashmir valley and we should strengthen it by taking the measures so that people could feel a change on the ground.

Reduction of security forces and withdrawal of special powers to security forces are the two CBMs which could make things better, she said.

''When the PDP withdraw POTA and recommended the centre to resume the bus service with POK, apprehensions were expressed by opposition parties. We took the risk and the result is before everybody, ''she said, adding, ''we have to take the risk of troops reduction now.'' She added that only such tangible measures would make a difference in Kashmir people's life.

''These measures should not be viewed in isolation, unless practical initiatives are taken to address the situation on the ground, the CBMs will have no meaning for the people, who are the worst victims. '' the former CM of Jammu and Kashmir said.

UNI