Left to hold discussions with civil society members on Kashmir

Ahead of the visit of an all-party delegation to Kashmir, which is in the grip of unrest, the CPI(M) and CPI will hold consultations with civil society members and intellectuals to seek their views over the issue at a meeting here tomorrow.
The meeting, to be held at Constitution Club here, is an effort on part of the two parties to seek views of experts regarding the tense situation in the Valley "irrespective of whether the government does so or not", CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said.
"Whether the government seeks inputs from others or not, the Left parties will definitely seek those," Yechury, who is part of the about 30-member all-party delegation, said.

"...We should address the trust deficit among people of Kashmir and therefore, we should meet all the stakeholders without any pre-condition and hear them and then try to find solution," he added.
Yechury had two days ago reportedly hoped that the visit doesn't turn out to be a mere photo opportunity and insisted the Centre holds dialogue with all stake holders including Hurriyat leaders.
The delegation, to be led by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, will visit the Valley on September 4-5.
During their visit, it will hold discussions with Jammu and Kashmir Governor, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and representatives of all political parties in the state.

The Kashmir Valley has seen possibly the longest spell of protests for over 50 days in which 70 people have lost their lives so far.