BJP wants the Mehbooba Mufti government to act tough against those taking the lead in organising violent protests in Kashmir, asserting that it will have to deal firmly with radical elements to end the ongoing unrest.
A senior party leader said Chief Minister Mehbooba seemed not to be too firm in cracking down on such elements because the hub of their activities is in south Kashmir, considered a PDP stronghold, and maintained the Centre has conveyed to her its views regarding the same.
"Mehbooba has no choice but to go after them. The government has identified over 80 overground workers responsible for organising violent protests and playing a lead role in uniting stone pelters," he said.
BJP is in the ruling alliance with PDP in the state.
Commenting on Home Minister Rajnath Singh's current visit to the Valley, he said his second visit is meant to give right signals to the civil society that the Centre is sincere in restoring peace.
Asked if there would be attempts by the Centre to engage with separatists, he said the government would not reach out to them but its doors are open to anyone who is willing to talk to it.
He said the government is making efforts to bring an end to unrest, which has resulted in continuous 47th day of restrictions on the movement of people in the Valley, and added that there could be relaxation in curfew in the coming days.
Talking to media here, BJP general secretary Ram Madhav said a number of groups have expressed their desire to call on the Home Minister. Whoever is interested can come and talk, he said.
The unrest was triggered following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on July 8 and as many as 65 people, including two policemen, have been killed and several thousands injured in clashes between protestors and security forces.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
