Farooq Rules Out ‘Compromise’ On Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah has asserted India has legitimate right over the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and ruled out any compromise on the Kashmir issue.

His statement assumes significance as the Chief Minister’s party, National Conference is a partner of the ruling United Front. [In the past he had favored a settlement on the Line of Control between India and Pakistan giving Pakistan-occupied Kashmir portion to Islamabad.]

He said, June 21: "The Foreign Secretary Salman Haider, now holding talks in Islamabad, should keep in mind that PoK and other areas illegally occupied by Pakistan belong to India."

"Kashmir is an integral part of India and will remain so," Abdullah declared addressing a passing-out parade at a police complex on the outskirts of Srinagar.

"While talks aimed at promoting amity and friendship between India and Pakistan are welcome, there will be no compromise on Kashmir," the Chief Minister said.

"India does not want to fight a war but will not yield to the aggression," he said adding "we will win the proxy war launched by Pakistan against us." (PTI)

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