Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh now on a two-day visit to the Valley met many delegations on Saturday at the Nehru Guest House in Srinagar.
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But Srinagar-based trade union organizations including Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kashmir Economic Alliance, Kashmir Traders’ Federation and also familiar civil society groups of the Valley, however, refused to meet Singh on the plea the government should first halt killing and maiming people at the hands of security forces.
Indian Home Minister Rajnath Singh headed to Kashmir following 15 days of curfew in the region after atrocities committed by Indian forces reached new heights.
Singh said the UPA government had used pellet guns during the 2010 agitation in Kashmir.
Official sources said Singh will also visit some areas in south Kashmir affected by the ongoing violence which has claimed 48 lives – 46 civilians and two policemen – so far.
Union Home Minister on Monday blamed Pakistan for fomenting trouble in Kashmir.
This is Rajnath Singh’s second visit to Kashmir during this month.
The Hurriyat however issued a public appeal last night, asking people to “stay away from meeting the home minister”, Dukhtaraan-e-Millat, a constituent of Syed Ali Geelani-led Hurriyat, said in a statement last evening.
Meanwhile, curfew was lifted from Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam and Ganderbal districts and some parts of Srinagar city in view of the improving situation in these areas, a police official said. The militant’s killing sparked a wave of unrest in the valley that has left some 45 people dead in the days of violence.
“The difference of opinion can be resolved through talks as there can be no other solution”, Rajnath said, adding, problems cannot be solved in short of span of time.
Referring to concerns expressed by members over the use of pellet guns, the Home Minister said one person had died due to injuries caused by these weapons, while 53 suffered injuries in eyes.
He urged Kashmiri youths not to throw stones at security forces and told police and paramilitary forces to avoid using pellet guns that have blinded several protesters.
“I have asked the security forces to refrain from using pellet guns as much as possible”.
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“The government will get them treated at AIIMS. Shift those who need specialized treatment”, it said. Mehbooba appealed to youths and their parents and families to help the government restore peace.
