Modi conveys disapproval over separatist's release

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday conveyed his strong disapproval and sense of outrage of the entire Lok Sabha over the release of Kashmiri separatist leader Masrat Alam on the directions of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed.

Modi said his government has sought clarifications on the issue.

Responding to the concern of members on the issue in the house, Modi said his government will take all steps necessary to preserve the unity and integrity of the country.

He said there was no division among political parties in the country on the issue of terrorism and separatism.

The Bharatiya Janata Party is a partner in the ruling coalition in Jammu and Kashmir with the Peoples Democratic Party.

Modi, who attended the swearing-in ceremony of the new government in Jammu and Kashmir, did not take any names but made it clear that Sayeed had not consulted the central government before the controversial decision to release Alam.

"Whatever activities are taking place since formation of the government (in the state), these are happening without consultations with the central government and without any information to it," Modi said.

He said parliament members had a right to criticise the BJP as it was part of the ruling coalition in Jammu and Kashmir. "But we should not say anything that sends a message that there were different voices about the country's unity."

"I want to assure the country that this government does not accept any such activity. We are not prepared to accept any compromise with the country's unity and integrity. The steps have been taken within the parameters of constitution and will be taken in future," he said.

Referring to the controversial decisions of Sayeed, Modi said he had no reason to be quiet over them.

"I want to tell you, we have sought clarification on some issues and after the chief minister provides it, we will share it with the house," Modi said.

He said the anger over the release of the separatist leader was not of a particular party but of the entire house.

"And we convey our outrage with one voice against separatist forces, those who support them and those who misuse the law. The house is committed to preserve the unity and integrity of the country. Whatever steps need to be taken by the government, will be taken," Modi said.

Alam, who was arrested during the 2010 unrest in the Kashmir Valley for allegedly inciting youth, was released by the newly-installed PDP-BJP coalition government on Saturday.

BJP leaders have said they were not consulted on the issue.