'Army respects people's sentiments

Udhampur, J K, June 17 (UNI) The Army today said it had always respected the sentiments of people of Jammu and Kashmir and would never takes any step against their wishes.

The clarification was made by GOC-IN-C Northern Command Lt Gen H S Panag while taking to reporters on the Army's goodwill drive to repair old mosques in Kashmir, which had sparked off protest in the valley.

''Army takes all the development works on the request of the locals and their representatives. We will respect the sentiments of people and their religious leaders,'' the GOC-IN-C said, asserting that the Indian Army has the best track record in maintaining human rights in the whole world.

He, however, informed that such works were being undertaken since long and army would continue to work 'sadhbhawana' for the cause of people.

Muslim leaders in Kashmir had threatened to launch massive campaign against Army's drive to repair Islamic holy places to win the 'heart and mind' of the local population.

UNI