Hurriyat Emphasizes Need for Dialogue Amid Kashmiri Tensions

The Hurriyat Conference, under Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, expressed its commitment to dialogue as the means for peace in Jammu and Kashmir. Reacting to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks, the Hurriyat reiterated its willingness for talks and highlighted its historical engagement with Indian government leaders.

The Hurriyat Conference, led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, reaffirmed on Monday its commitment to dialogue with the Indian government as the path to peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir.

This response follows remarks by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who suggested that efforts for talks were rebuffed by Hurriyat leaders in 2016. Singh, speaking at an election rally in Ramban, stated that a delegation he led as Union Home Minister was turned away when they attempted dialogue with separatists.

In a detailed statement, Hurriyat clarified that Mirwaiz was detained at the time and had requested discussions among Hurriyat leadership and assurances from the government before engaging with opposition MPs. The Conference also emphasized its consistent advocacy for engagement, highlighting past dialogues with former Indian leaders despite personal risks.

(With inputs from agencies.)