Time not ripe for demilitralisation in J

Srinagar, Mar 4 (UNI) Dismissing reports about an immediate demilitralisation of Jammu and Kashmir in the near future, Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said that time was not ripe for such a move.'' Addressing a public meeting at Uri, about 100 km from here in north Kashmir yesterday, Mr Azad said once peace was visible on the ground in the state, withdrawal of troops will automatically follow.

Immediate demilitarization was not possible when innocent people are being killed,'' he said, adding that peace was not visible in Kashmir despite people desperatey yearning for it. For withdrawal of troops, peace is a pre-condition, he added.

Lauding the security forces for their work during all these years, he said they are deployed in the state for the safety and security of the people.

Without naming the coalition partner in the government, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the separatist organisations, Mr Azad said those demanding withdrawal or reduction of troops should take into account the ground situation before making such a demand.

''Who will guarantee if there is a flare up in the militancy once the troops are withdrawn, ''he asked, adding they have to guarantee the safety and security of common people.

Mr Azad said after resuming the bus services between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK), people were eager in favour of starting the truck service.

''We are ready but Pakistan is creating hurdles,'' he said and expressed the hope that the service will be started soon.

About the peace process between India and Pakistan, he said it was moving towards right direction.

He said those opposing the ongoing dialogue process between the two countries will not be allowed to succeed.

UNI