Human rights violations in J-K will be dealt with firmly: PM

Ajay Kaul

On Board PM's Special Aircraft, June 17 (PTI) Against
the backdrop of uproar in the northern Indian state of Kashmir
over the alleged rape of two girls, Prime Minister Manmohan
Singh today said his government is committed to 'zero
tolerance' against rights violations and effective action will
be taken in such cases.

Responding to a question on the Shopian rape case, he
said it was "very unfortunate" that such incidents have taken
place.

"If there is any violation of human rights, we will take
effective action," he told journalists, adding that the
government was committed to 'zero tolerance' to rights
violations.

Kashmir has witnessed protests and demonstrations for
several days over the alleged rape of two girls, suspectedly
by some security personnel.

Singh, who was speaking while returning from his
three-day visit to Yekaterinburg in Russia, said he has
promised the state Chief Minister Omar Abdullah that once the
new central government settles down, it would take a fresh
look at the problems on account of development.

He said the reconstruction and development plan would be
upgraded.

On the political aspect of Jammu and Kashmir, he said he
stands ready to engage in dialogue with any group, including
those who are not in political mainstream, an apparent
reference to separatist Hurriyat Conference.

"I have not given up hope on Jammu and Kashmir," Singh
said.

"We would be happy to engage in dialogue with any group
which is interested in talking. That option remains. We will
welcome even those who are not in the political mainstream. If
they have any views, they are welcome to give," Singh said.

Recalling that he had two rounds of talks with Hurriyat
Conference, the Prime Minister said they had promised to send
proposals on resolution of Kashmir issue but never sent those.

They had also said that too many people had been
detained without any reason, Singh said, adding when asked for
the list, they never gave one.

At the same time, he said, "I am not complaining. We are
willing to engage in dialogue with anyone who is ready to shun
violence." PTI AKK
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