Suggestions to alter the draconian laws controlling the state and implement development measures to build confidence of Kashmiri people have fallen between the state and central governments, the interlocutors’ report on Jammu & Kashmir has said.
It regrets that the amendments to Public Safety Act, as suggested by the PM’s working group, to make it less severe was not discussed in the state Assembly.
Similarly, there has been differences amongst stakeholders, particularly the Union Home and Defence Ministries, over amending the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) causing delay.
The PSA gives security forces sweeping powers to detain people who attempt or propagate feelings of enmity or hatred or disharmony in the state.
"The group's impression is that AFSPA is more the symbol of a problem than its cause. But symbols are important for peace processes, and thus the Ministry of Defence needs to consider how to respond positively to this issue rather than negatively..." the report points out.
Published 24 May 2012, 18:56 IST