By IANS,
Jammu : The patron of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jammu and Kashmir Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Sunday asked for the repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from the state.
“The government of India cannot escape its primary duty towards the people of the state without further complicating the problems. Removal of AFSPA and complete restoration of democratic institutions and spirit are the first essential steps in resolution of the problem,” he said.
Former J&K chief minister Sayeed underlined “continuing the law to operate in the changed circumstances when the militancy is substantially reduced and people have overwhelmingly participated in democratic process is a hurdle in complete normalcy and a setback to the peace process”.
Referring to latest incidents of protests, violence and clashes in the Kashmir valley post Afzal Guru’s hanging Feb 9, Sayeed said: “The government is trying to terrorise people into silence. All norms of decency have been violated.”