MPs want cut in Kashmir troops

The Centre is expected to consider significant reduction of security personnel in civilian areas in Kashmir after the all-party delegation, which returned to the Capital on Wednesday after a two day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, submits its report to the Union home ministry.

The government sources disclosed that majority of the political parties took the view that there is a need for “visible” reduction of security forces especially in residential areas within the Valley to stop the alienation of people. This seems to have emerged as the topmost priority for the Centre which is keen to initiate confidence building measures to stem the crisis.

Sources said that a decision on dilution of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is unlikely to happen anytime soon. However, a redeployment of security forces in the Valley is on the cards.

The all-party delegation is expected to meet again in the Capital to evolve a response which can then be placed before the home minister, Mr P. Chidambaram. The home ministry is expected to take the proposals of the all-party delegation to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for a final view.

Government sources said the parleys between the leaders of national parties and the separatists in the Valley has been a “positive” development.

“While the political outfits’ demand for a dialogue with tall sections and political forces in J&K has been met, the separatists on their part cannot complain that their views have not been heard,” an official said.

The delegation has heard views of the people and both sides are satisfied with the discussions, he added.