Rajya Sabha discusses Kashmir violence

New Delhi, Aug 10 The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday took up for discussion the continued Kashmir unrest with Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's absence in the house during the sensitive debate.

"The crown of India (Kashmir) is burning. You must have felt the heat on your head, if not the heart," Azad said initiating the debate.

The Kashmir debate in the Rajya Sabha came more than a month after violence erupted in the valley following the July 8 killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani.

More than 55 people have been killed in the weeks of demonstrations and clashes between Kashmiri protesters and security forces. The violence has left thousands injured. Hundreds, who have been hit by pellets, have partially or fully lost their eyesight.

When the house began discussing the situation, Modi was not present. The Prime Minister had in his public rally in Madhya Pradesh a day earlier appealed for peace in the valley.

"How come the Prime Minister addresses Kashmir from Madhya Pradesh... Why not from the house," Azad asked. "Is there no value of the parliament?"

"Do not only love the beauty of Kashmir. Love those who have been blinded, injured and killed," he added.

IANS