Parties trying to divert attention from Kashmir issue: Geelani

Hardline Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani today said the creation of new administrative units in Jammu and Kashmir was a normal administrative exercise but accused mainstream parties of using the matter to divert the attention of the people from Kashmir issue.
"Though the decision is a normal administrative exercise, politicians are trying to change the discourse on Kashmir and shift focus from the seriousness of the issue," a Hurriyat spokesman quoted Geelani as saying.
The Hurriyat chairman said the decision was being projected as a great favour to the people of the state.
"National Conference and Congress will try to use the decision as an election stunt for their electoral benefits, but it makes no difference to the people of Kashmir," he added.