The Hindu : National : “Withdraw forces from civilian areas”

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Monday, Nov 19, 2007
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“Withdraw forces from civilian areas”

Shujaat Bukhari

Conference of women from both sides of LoC condemns violence by all sides

SRINAGAR: The three-day conference of women from both sides of the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir ended on Sunday with a call for withdrawal of military forces from civilian areas on both sides. It also condemned violence in all forms.

At the conclusion of the conference, attended by 45 women activists from Pakistan-Administered Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir and Delhi, the executive secretary of the Centre for Dialogue and Reconciliation, Sushoba Barve, read out a statement highlighting the resolution passed by the delegates.

The statement said: “We condemn violence committed by all sides and in all forms and manifestations that has led to loss of lives and property, enforced disappearances, custodial killings, torture, unjustified arrests, rape and molestation.”

The delegates have called for withdrawal of military forces from civilian areas, reduction of forces on both the sides of LoC, disbanding special operations group and pro-government militants as well as decommissioning of militant groups to create an atmosphere for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

Supporting the India-Pakistan peace process, the delegates hoped that the Kashmir issue was pursued and resolved. “We believe people from Jammu and Kashmir, including women, should be an essential part of the peace process.”

They also urged the governments to facilitate the return of the youth who crossed the border and those from displaced families.

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