Press Statement
The Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) has issued the following statement:
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) expresses deep shock and strongly condemns the series of massacres perpetrated in the Kashmir Valley by some extremist groups. In the two worst incidents, 19 pilgrims going to Amarnath, including some women and children, were shot dead in cold blood. In another attack, 18 workers of Bihari origin were killed in Anantnag district. The death toll in all the incidents is continuing to mount.
These massacres are part of a deliberate plan to thwart the possibility of talks being held in a peaceful atmosphere consequent to the announcement of the cease-fire by Hizbul Mujahiddin. There are some extremist groups with external links operating in Kashmir who are against any negotiations.
The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) appeals to all sections of the people in the Kashmir Valley to realise the nefarious game behind these violent attacks. All democratic minded sections should firmly stand for a peaceful atmosphere in which discussions can be held. The Central government and the state administration must ensure that the security forces are alert to foil the mindless violence being indulged in.