Awami National Conference condemns restrictions in Kashmir

Srinagar, Nov 7 (UNI) Condemning the restrictions imposed on the movement of people by the administration for the past two days in the Kashmir valley, the Awami National Conference (ANC) said the arrest of Hurriyat Conference (HC) and other separatist leaders was illegal and undemocratic.

Former Chief Minister and ANC president Ghulam Mohammad Shah termed these restrictions as illegal and a blatant violation of human rights.

Mr Shah regretted the harassment of people and maltreatment of the HC Leaders.

The ANC president, whose party is contesting the Assembly elections for the first time after 1987, said that no doubt elections are the soul of democracy, but such blatant violations, restrictions and arrests negate all the good things of democracy.

The democratic process loses credence, he said and reminded the assurances of free and fair poll of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

The same assurances were given by the Governor of the State to the ANC representatives.

Mr Shah further stated that the only reason for ANC participation in the ensuing Assembly elections is to provide an honest, sincere, accountable and an effective administration, which will provide good governance without bloodshed.

The resolution of the Kashmir issue through tripartite talks is the only way out as a peaceful resolution.

Mr Shah sought the immediate attention of the administration to stop the harassment of people, restriction of their movement and immediate release of arrested leaders and political prisoners and give up the policy of intimidation.

UNI BAS SBC KN1757