Muslims call for peaceful solution to Amarnath land row

Calcutta News.Net
Thursday 21st August, 2008 (ANI)

Srinagar/Jammu, Aug 21 : Muslim organisations have urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to reach at a peaceful solution on the controversial Amarnath forestland row.

"The issue should be solved by having talks rather than by getting engaged in violent protests. I appeal on behalf of all Muslims in India that whatever measures are necessary to restore peace and stability in the region, should be taken," said Syed Atar Hussain Dehlavi, the president of the Anjuma-E-Minhaz Rasul.

Meanwhile, angered over the silence maintained by the Government on the entire controversy, the Shri Amarnath Yatra Sangharsh Samiti (SASS), the group that is spearheading the agitation, has threatened to continue with their protests till their demands are met.

Leela Karan Sharma, the president of the SASS, said activists would burn effigies of the Central Government for its 'criminal' silence on the issue.

The SASS has also launched a civil disobedience movement in the region, asking the people of Jammu to refrain from paying taxes imposed by the State Government and also not to pay electricity bills.

The activists are planning a complete blockade in the region on August 25 and have advised the people not to venture out on that day. Special consideration would be given to those in need of medical aid.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has called for adoption of the middle path to arrive at a solution acceptable to all.

"Nothing of the sort should happen that the wishes of the people of Jammu and Kashmir should be sacrificed. Such a medium should be adopted which leaves the people of both regions satisfied,' said Abdullah.

The region has been rocked by violent protests and demonstrations for over six weeks.

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