SRINAGAR: The Chief of the Army Staff on Thursday ruled out any ceasefire with militants, but said the Army was ready to encourage those willing to lay down arms.

Speaking to reporters after declaring open an orphanage set up by the Srinagar-based 15 Army Corps, General J.J. Singh said no concession would be given to foreign militants operating in Kashmir.

`No troop cut'

When asked whether a ceasefire was possible in the near future, he said: "There is no such idea. The Army is ready to help Kashmiri youths who want to shun violence." He also indicated that there was no immediate possibility of reduction in troops as the militant attacks had not stopped.

Gen. Singh said local militants would be rehabilitated if they surrendered but those who continue to operate "will be dealt with firmly."

He said infiltration had come down to a great extent but still they (militants) were trying to sneak in. "They (militants) are trying to infiltrate but we are continuously foiling their designs," the Army chief said. "Every week there are one or two attempts. Some (militants) get killed but some pass through."

Commending the people of Kashmir for supporting the ongoing peace process, Gen. Singh said the launch of the bus service across the Line of Control was the biggest confidence building measure and the change in the minds and hearts of people was visible. "Our two-pronged policy of winning the hearts and minds of people and on the other hand fighting the militants is working well on the ground."

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