Press trust of india
New Delhi, August 23: The US Tuesday refused to comment on the situation in Kashmir, in the grip of ceaseless violence for a-month-and-a-half, saying that matter has to be decided by the parties concerned.
Asked to comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks about atrocities in Pakistan’s Balochistan, US Ambassador Richard Verma was quoted by news website ‘The Quint’ as having said in an interview, “I would let the Prime Minister’s comment stand on its own”.
On the situation in Kashmir, he said, “About the increased tension in Kashmir in particular, it’s our long-standing policy to leave the matter to be decided by the parties involved.”
On why the US does not raise concern over terrorism originating in Pakistan directed against India, Verma said he would like to “disagree” with the suggestion.
“In the last 15 years in particular, the US under different administrations has gone after terrorists, wherever they are, including LeT. I don’t think there should be any mistaking our commitment,” the US envoy added.
Terming counter-terrorism as a “huge issue”, he said the US has also been a victim of terrorism just like India. Since 9/11, the US has been unrelenting vis-a-vis terrorism, he said.
On how can America deal with China’s bid to block India’s NSG membership, Verma said it was a hard-work diplomacy and the US can “get it done”.
Meanwhile, curfew was Tuesday lifted from most areas of Srinagar in view of the improving situation, even as normal life in the Valley remained affected for the 46th straight day due to restrictions and strike in the wake of violence following killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani.
Curfew has been lifted from most areas of Srinagar district. However, it will remain in force in five police station areas of downtown city and Batamaloo, Maisuma and Kralkhud in the uptown, a police official said. He said curfew was also in force in Anantnag town of south Kashmir.
The lifting of the curbs
allowed movement of people in the city as there was increased movement of private cars and auto-rickshaws in and around Lal Chowk city centre Tuesday.
However, the official said, restrictions on the assembly of four or more persons under Section 144 Crpc will continue to remain imposed in the entire Valley to maintain law and order.
Mobile Internet also continued to remain suspended in the entire Valley, where the outgoing facility on prepaid mobiles remained barred.
