Pakistan encouraging separatist forces in Kashmir: Mohan Bhagwat

Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday accused Pakistan of encouraging separatist forces in Jammu and Kashmir and demanded strict action against those indulging in violence.

"Pakistan is encouraging separatist forces in Kashmir," Bhagwat said while delivering his annual speech during the 91st foundation day of RSS.

"A large part of Kashmir is free of tension; we must act against those indulging in violence, strict action should be taken," the RSS chief said.

Bhagwat also reiterated that "entire Kashmir is ours including Mirpur, Muzaffarabad and Gilgit-Baltistan".

His remarks came in the backdrop of the tension prevailing in the Kashmir Valley following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on July 8. At least 91 people have lost their lives and thousands have been injured in the unrest since then.

"The government took a commendable step; our borders should be guarded and well managed," Bhagwat said.

"Aur unko achha jawaab bhi humare shaasan ne diya hai. Shaasan ke netritva mein humare sena ne sahas dikhaya hai. (Our government has given a befitting reply to them. Under the present leadership, the army has shown courage)," he added.

"Phir ek baar puri duniya mein Bharat ki sena ki pratishtha unchi ho gyi. Upadravi ko sanket mila ki sahene karne ki maryada hoti hai. (The entire world has got the message about the capability of the Indian Army that has reinstated the country's position; there are limits to one's endurance)," Bhagwat said.

Bhagwat's remarks came following the surgical strikes carried out by the Indian Army across the Line of Control (LoC) on September 29. The Indian forces destroyed several terror launch pads across the LoC.

"It is a matter of great pride the way situation was handled by the government," the RSS chief added.