V.K. Singh reaches out to Kashmiris, says become part of India's epic-story

Expressing concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in the Valley post the gunning down of Hizbul Mujahideen poster boy Burhan Wani, Minister of State for External Affairs General (Retd.) V.K. Singh has urged the people to cooperate with the government in this hour of crisis while stating that some unwanted elements have been misguiding the Kashmiris.

General (Retd.) Singh in a statement asked the people of the Valley to step out of the crowd and become a part of the 'epic-story' of India.

"Kashmir will always remain ours and there has been no change in thoughts since 1947 and neither will it ever come. In 2004, our Prime Minister said that the boundaries of India won't be altered anyhow, but the facility for inter-country transportation will be sanctioned. The early you accept the fact, the better the conditions will turn out to be," General (Retd.) Singh said.

"Cooperate with us so that we can help you. Whole world knows the power of India and knows that India has a very special recognition in future also. Do you want to be a part of this epic-story of India? It's my request, step out of the crowd and direct your future," he added.

Stating that everyone is well-aware about the present situation in Kashmir Valley, General (Retd.) Singh expressed his dismay over some people calling Wani a martyr and mourning his death.

"They have even put the Centre and state government on trial proving them guilty of forcefully suppressing the voice of the people of Kashmir. They are even pointing out that the military and police are the mouthpiece of the government," he said.

"The people, who provoke them to participate in protests and riots, are answerable to the people of Kashmir," he added while reaching out to the youth.

India has unequivocally rejected Pakistan Cabinet decisions on the situation of Jammu and Kashmir.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official spokesperson Vikas Swarup in a statement said continuous glorification of terrorists belonging to banned terrorist organizations makes it amply clear where Pakistan's sympathies are.

He said India is dismayed at Pakistan's attempts to interfere in its internal matter, where Islamabad or any other external party has no locus standi.

Earlier on Saturday, one more person died in firing by the security forces after clashes in Kashmir, taking the number of deaths in the violence triggered by Wani's killing to 41.

Cable TV services were suspended for more than 12 hours and newspapers have alleged a media gag.

More than 2,000 have been injured in violent protests that broke out after Wani's killing last Friday.