MM Ansari backs Chidambaram on his J&K comment

Former interlocutor MM Ansari on Sunday backed Congress leader P. Chidambaram's comment on Jammu and Kashmir by saying that there is no harm in extending the demands of autonomy in the state.

Speaking to ANI, the former interlocutor said, "The Kashmiri people are simply asking for au

tonomy which was agreed upon way back in 1952 that needs to be restored. I think there is no harm in extending to the demands of autonomy in Jammu and Kashmir as per the agreement made in 1952."

"So what Mr Chidambaram has said I think is based on the regular demands of the Kashmiris", added Ansari.

"As back as 1952 maximum autonomy as per Article 370 of the Constitution was granted to J&K. In due course of time, the autonomy was eroded. Some of the laws that were not to be extended to Jammu and Kashmir have been extended. So in our interlocutor report we suggested that extension of all the laws need to be rebooted by the constitutional committee," he further said.

Earlier on Saturday, senior Congress leader and former Union Minister P. Chidamabaram said that when people of Jammu and Kashmir ask for 'azadi' they seek greater autonomy. He also said the Centre should find out the areas in Jammu and Kashmir where autonomy can be given.