BJP leaders talk to PM, Kashmir CM on Kishtwar clashes

The BJP sought immediate action and central intervention in tackling the communal violence that broke out in Kishtwar town of Jammu region Friday.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Rajnath Singh Friday called Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, while Lok Sabha leader of opposition Sushma Swaraj urged Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take action.

Rajnath Singh, in a comment on Twitter, said he raised the issue with the prime minister and was assured the situation would be brought under control soon.

"Had a telephonic conversation with the PM Dr. Manmohan Singh regarding outbreak of violent clashes in Kishtwar district of Jammu region. The PM assured me that the situation would be quickly brought under control as the army has been called out in Kishtwar (sic)," tweeted the BJP president.

"I have checked on Kishtwar. Many injured. Houses and shops burnt. Please do something immediately," Swaraj told Abdullah via Twitter.

In his reply, Abdullah said: "Injuries and damage on both sides. Situation is being brought under control. Adequate forces sent."

"I am not referring to any side. Everyone injured there is a Hindustani," Sushma Swaraj said in reply.

Abdullah added: "But the lies on mutilations in Kishtwar are designed to inflame passions and polarise people."

He also asked Sushma Swaraj to talk to the Northern Army commander or the director general of police in Kishtwar.

The BJP leader later said she had a telephonic conversation with Abdullah.

Curfew was imposed and the army was called out in Kishtwar following clashes between people of two communities that left at least 15 injured.

According to reports, some people attacked another group raising pro-independence slogans after Eid prayers in Kuleed area of Kishtwar town.