Defence Secretary assess troops reduction plan

Srinagar, July 5 (UNI) Defence Secretary Shekhar Dutt today had a detailed meeting with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad after completing his interaction with the district administration at Rajouri, Poonch, Doda and Khannabal.

Mr Dutt is on a two day visit to Jammu and Kashmir to assess the ground situation in the state whether it is favourable for troops reduction.

Official sources told UNI that Mr Azad gave his view point to Mr Dutt about his apprehension about troops reduction.

Mr Azad is opposing troops reduction till the situation in the Kashmir valley improves. However, a coalition partner in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been demanding troops withdrawal from the state.

Sources said Mr Dutt earlier visited Rajouri, Poonch, Doda in Jammu region and Khannabal in the valley.

He was given a detailed brief by the civil, police and army officials.

The defence Secretary is scheduled to visit Baramulla and Kupwara where he will briefed by the district administration about the ground situation.

UNI