Recent HR abuses vitiated atmosphere in Kashmir: PDP

Srinagar, May 20 (UNI) The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a key ruling coalition partner in Jammu and Kashmir, has said the recent acts of human rights violations have vitiated the atmosphere in the valley and called for immediate steps to address public concerns.

Addressing a day-long convention of party workers at Handwara in Kupwara district, senior PDP leader Muzaffar Hussain Baig strongly condemned the recent incidents of the alleged high-handedness by the security forces with the women at Tral in Pulwama, Chingus in Poonch and Gurez in Baramulla.

He said the pledges at the highest level regarding zero tolerance for human rights abuses must fast translate at the ground to build and consolidate people's trust and faith in the system.

''The fundamental input that transformed the ground situation in the state after the 2002 Assembly elections was that people felt relief on security and development fronts. Any reversal of this trend would only add to the alienation of the masses, thereby spoiling the peace and reconciliation process,'' Mr Baig added.

He said the resolution of the Kashmir issue was not only vital for peace in the state, but equally important for security and stability of the region. ''Delay or complacency in the resolution of the Kashmir issue would only reinforce the writ of the destructive elements who are eagerly waiting for an opportunity to again blow up the fragile situation,'' the PDP leader said.

He said history has offered a momentous opportunity to India and Pakistan to make enduring peace in Jammu and Kashmir and march ahead on the path of economic and social progress. ''I am sure the two countries have recognised this historic reality.'' Mr Baig said the most crucial ingredient to be exhibited by the sub-continent's leadership to lead the process from the front, was the political courage. ''Though Kashmir was at no point of time, part of the gory politics of discord that engulfed the sub-continent in the run-up to the partition, ironically, this is the only place which continues to pay a huge price for it,'' he added.

The former deputy chief minister said it was the responsibility of the India-Pakistan leadership to bring Jammu and Kashmir out of the troubles, not of its own making.

''While the responsibility of resolving external dimensions of the Kashmir issue lies with India and Pakistan, internally we will have to move fast in bringing the democratic temper, character and tradition of our country in its full force to the state,'' he added.

He said it was a pity that even after 60 years of independence, democratic institutions in Jammu and Kashmir for their survival have to seek shelter under law enforcing agencies for whatever reasons.

Mr Baig said for the political class in the state to regain its relevance and credibility, the discourse in Jammu and Kashmir has to become increasingly democratic and political. ''Neither the use of gun nor the threat of its use can in any way undermine the democratic processes and institutions,'' he added.

UNI