Upper House to debate K-issue

Seema Kaul

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 9

As demanded by a united Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Home Minister Rajnath Singh agreed for a discussion on Kashmir on Wednesday morning.

The demand for a discussion and an all-party meeting had initially been raised by Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Seeking a stop to the use of pellet guns, the parties demanded an all-party meeting to discuss the issue and the visit of a delegation to the Valley to interact with the people.

Pointing out that curfew had entered the 31st day, Azad said they were ready to help the government manage the situation in the state.

He said, “Innocent women and children are dying. Your security forces are dying. Why are you shying away from a debate?”

Highlighting the injuries caused by pellet guns, JD(U) member Sharad Yadav said it was not enough to simply form a committee to examine the use of pellet guns.

“The government should take the entire country into confidence. It is our duty to help in any way we can. It is strange that the government is not giving us the opportunity to discuss the issue.”

Expressing concern over “lives being lost by the minute” and the use of pellet guns, CPM’s Sitaram Yechury suggested that a parliamentary delegation be sent on August 12.

“Stop pellet gun use immediately. Send this delegation on the 12th. Start the political process,” he said. He underscored the need to starting a political process to end the turmoil.

Questioning the use of sending a parliamentary delegation, PDP’s Mir Mohammed Fayaz said, “Who will meet them?” He said there was a roadmap for development and if it was discussed, he would welcome it.

BSP chief Mayawati demanded a debate on Kashmir in the House in the presence of the Prime Minister.

While MPs were demanding a discussion, Home Minister Rajnath Singh entered the House and agreed to hold a discussion on Wednesday.

Stating that the Kashmir turmoil could be resolved with everyone’s cooperation, the Home Minister said the situation was serious and he could not claim to manage the complex problem alone.