SRINAGAR, Sept 11: Senior separatist leader and chairman of the hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference has said the mention of “forgetting of past” on Kashmir issue in the joint statement issued by foreign ministers of India and Pakistan in their recent meet was “beyond logic”.
“The division of the subcontinent, which led to creation of India and Pakistan cannot be forgotten. How can the historic background of Kashmir issue and the sacrifices of the people for right to self determination be forgotten,” Geelani said.
“Instead of focusing on the Kashmir issue they gave importance to visa policy and improving trade ties.”
Geelani blamed New Delhi of a “rigid” attitude on Kashmir and said talks between long time foes and south-Asian nuclear rivals propagated a “status quo” on the issue, over which the two have fought at least three wars in last 65 years.
“Pakistan is providing justification for status quo through these talks and the change in her national policy towards Kashmir can be harmful for its own interests,” he added.
Geelani asked Pakistan to clarify whether the present policy with regard to ties with India was a matter of national policy or a “decision of an individual party”.
Also Read: Resolve Kashmir to move ahead with talks
