J&K polls: BJP promises to provide a non-AFSPA atmosphere in the state

Srinagar, Dec 1: Softening its stand on the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, BJP today said that if voted to power, the party will create an atmosphere where such a "stringent" law would not be required.

"Our understanding is that if BJP comes to power in the state, there would not been any need of such a law (AFSPA). We will create such an atmosphere where there would be no fear and everything will move forward peacefully and there would be no need of a stringent law," BJP leader and state-party in charge Ramesh Arora said.

Accusing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah who has been advocating partial revocation of the law, for "failing" to secure the atmosphere for any movement forward on the issue, the BJP leader said, "This government has failed to secure the atmosphere (for the law to go). Such a move will demoralise the armed forces besides hampering anti-militancy operations in the state."

Arora, while condemning the militants attack on the sarpanch of ruling National Conference in Shopian district yesterday, demanded a probe by the Election Commission into the incident.

"The Lal Chowk blast (on Saturday) and the Sarpanch killing is political terrorism. We condemn this and demand the Election commission to order a proper inquiry into the incidents. The administration should cooperate with the election body in the probe," he said.

"We do not support political terrorism or Pakistan-sponsored terrorism or any other form of terrorism. We want peace and prosperity," Arora said. The leader also alleged that NC and PDP were behind the acts of violence for their political gains.

"I have minutely observed this during the Parliament polls as well. Those who think boycotting (elections) and violent incidents would suit them, they would try to enforce the boycott and indulge in violence," Arora said.

"We understand that both NC and PDP are involved in this and it is for the people to analyze what the truth is. These are not vague allegations and police and other agencies here will have to take steps to stop such incidents irrespective of any high-profile people behind such incidents," he said.

PTI