People's Democracy

M Y Tarigami , secretary, J&K state committee of the CPI(M) welcomed the statement of prime minister announcing to reduce the size of security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. In a statement issued on November 13 he termed it as a bold initiative. "This, we believe will go a long way in reducing the level of violence and thus provide meaningful relief to the suffering masses", he stated.

It is in place to mention here that during his meeting with prime minster on November 1, Tarigami had suggested to identify some areas as peace zones within the state so that the people are allowed to move freely. Tarigami further demanded that the central government on its part should withdraw troops from these areas. He also suggested that the Pakistani leadership must be persuaded to use its influence so as to ensure that the militants refrain from violence in those areas. This initiative, he felt will finally lead to creating an atmosphere for demilitarisation of the state.