''We are still in woods,'' Soz on troop reduction in J

Srinagar, May 26 (UNI) Union Water Resources Minister Saifuddin Soz today agreed with the perception of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on troop withdrawal from the state, but asserted that police should get more space in the security management.

Addressing a crowded news conference here along with Mr Azad, Prof Soz said his perception was not different from that of the Chief Minister.

''Wherever troops are required...they should be there. Wherever the policemen are required, they should be there,'' he added.

Prof Soz said the people should get relief on the security front.

''But at the same time, we cannot lower the guards...We are not out of woods as yet,'' he added.

The Union Minister said police should get more space in handling internal security in the state. ''Police will be more effective in controlling the situation,'' he added.

UNI