Early Times Report
Jammu, July 25 : Jammu and Kashmir Minister for PHE, Flood Control and Irrigation Sham Lal Sharama today said time is not ripe to withdraw Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from the state in view of escalated tension along the borders. "Cross border firing incidents along the international border and the Line of Control have become a routine and in such a situation, AFSPA revocation is not possible" Mr Sharama told reporters at the sidelines of a function here this afternoon. He said, "We (Congress) are of the opinion that prior taking any decision on AFSPA, Army and the para-military forces vis--vis other agencies must be consulted." Sharma's reaction came in the backdrop of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's yesterday's remarks that some people at the Centre will have no time to revoke AFSPA from the state but he will continue to raise his voice.
Sharma, however, on increased ceasefire violations, said, "in 89 days of Modi-led government at the Center, Pakistan had violated the truce for 59 times and one can imagine whether good days (Achhe Din) have come or not. "Though National Conference and Congress are running a coalition in the state but after announcing that both of them will contest on all 87 seats on its own, the reactions and counter reactions have started |
