Pakistan stance strengthens Centre’s plan of townships for Kashmiri Pandits

New Delhi: Both the Centre and the state government feel that separatist elements can be convinced through negotiations that composite townships are the only way forward to ensure the pandits’ safe return to the Valley.

“The statement by the Pakistan foreign ministry confirms our suspicion that Hurriyat protests are Pakistan-sponsored,” a senior security official said. Government sources said the Pakistan’s statement has only made the Centre’s resolve stronger for going ahead with the plan to set up special zones for the Pandits.

“Having realised that they have failed to sustain the terror operations in the Kashmir Valley, the Pak ISI is now roping in the separatist elements to create hurdles. We have definite information that Pakistan agencies are in touch with the separatist leaders directing them to sustain pressure,” an official said.