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Rift a betrayal of people's trust, says Mirwaiz

By Our Staff Reporter

Jammu Sept. 20. The former founder chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, has said that the split within the separatist camp had "deeply angered" the people of Jammu and Kashmir as this was a betrayal of the faith which "they reposed in us."

Addressing a gathering on Friday, the Mirwaiz said, "people have reposed a lot of faith in us. It is fact that the differences among the separatist groups are superficial. We all have to work for our goal, which is supreme, and this reality cannot be ignored. I hope the freedom loving groups will keep this goal in mind and display unity."

The Mirwaiz has been appointed by the Ansari-led Hurriyat to work for uniting the split groups of the Hurriyat.

In continuation of his efforts to unite the separatist organisation, the Mirwaiz also met the senior separatist leader Shabir Shah and asked him to come under a united banner.

Hopeful of the fact that he would be able to resolve differences, the Mirwaiz said: "I am constantly in touch with the separatist groups and individuals to achieve unity."

Referring to Indo-Pak. relations, he regretted the situation and said it was again taking an ugly turn. "They have again started the war of words and any time it can change into a war of weapons."

Due to pressure of the international community and changing political situation, he said the chances of the beginning of a dialogue process had brightened. "But, regretfully the atmosphere of tension has again gained ground."

He urged the leadership of the two countries not to let the situation get worse.

Interestingly, some time ago the chairman of the rebel faction of All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, had asked the Mirwaiz to join his faction.Mr. Geelani said: "I would be ready to take even Mr. Ansari but they have to accept my leadership."

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