Farooq warns of another ''1990-like rebellion'' in Kashmir

Srinagar, Oct 22 (UNI) Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) patron Farooq Abdullah has warned of ''another 1990-like rebellion'' in the conflict-ridden Valley if the human rights violations continued unabated.

Addressing a public meeting at Sarnal in Anantnag district of south Kashmir, Dr Abdullah claimed that the people of Kashmir were losing patience. ''If the killings of innocents continue, another 1990-like rebellion cannot be ruled out,'' he added.

The NC patron launched a scathing attack of the Congress-led coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir for ''spreading lies'' about the present security situation in the strife-torn state.

He termed as ''hoax'' Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad's recent statement that ''no human rights violations'' take place in the state and cited the recent ''brutal murder'' of a teacher by the Army in Kupwara district.

''It is unfortunate that the victim was killed for trying to protect the chastity and honour of his sisters. Such gory incidents occurred in the past too, but the probes ordered have never been taken to their logical end,'' Dr Abdullah added.

Demanding that strict action be taken against the ''murderers'' of teacher Abdul Rashid Mir, he said the killing should be thoroughly probed and the accused handed down exemplary punishment.

''Even Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's zero tolerance promise is not being fulfilled. Where is the peace and when will these killings stop?'' the former Chief Minister asked.

The NC patron also asked his party workers to gear up for the coming Assembly elections in the state. ''Elections in the state and the Centre can be held any time and we should be prepared to face them with full determination,'' he added.

Dr Abdullah assured the public that his party would give mandate to only honest and clean candidates.

UNI