Avoid using pellet guns, Rajnath Singh tells security forces on Kashmir visit

July 24, 2016 18:01

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has urged the youth of Kashmir not to engage in stone-pelting and also asked security forces to refrain from using pellet guns against protesters.

Rajnath also took a strong stand against Pakistan's role in the ongoing tensions in the Kashmir Valley, asking Islamabad to desist encouraging Kashmiri youth from taking up arms.

"We do not need the involvement of any third party to address the situation in Kashmir+ ," said Rajnath Singh, at the end of a two-day visit to the troubled Valley.

He also sought to allay tensions, saying, "As far as the Centre is concerned, we are clear that we don't not want a relationship with Kashmir that is based on necessities. We want a relationship that is based on emotional bonds," he said.

"I would like to tell our neighbouring country, you yourself are affected by terrorism. You had to storm the Lal Masjid to kill the terrorists. But on the other hand, you appeal to Kashmiri youth to take up arms," he said.

"They are not pak (pure) when it comes to Kashmir," Rajnath added.

He said all steps were being taken to ensure a return to normalcy in Kashmir. "I urge the youth of Kashmir not to engage in stone-pelting and also ask the security forces to refrain from using pellet guns against protestors as far as possible," he said.

"I have spoken with Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and assured her that any injured persons who are unable to get proper medical treatment here can be sent to Delhi for treatment. We will ensure they are treated at AIIMS," he said.

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