KNP to hold Peace Conference and Peace Rally in Neelam Valley

KNP to hold Peace Conference and Peace Rally in Neelam Valley

London        21 September 2013

Kashmir National Party is to hold a Peace Rally and a Peace Conference in the Neelam Valley to protest against growing presence of armed militants in the area. The Neelam Valley is also used as a launching pad to send armed militants across the Line of Control to commit acts of violence and terrorism.

The presence of armed militants in the area are causing enormous problems for the local people; and many times in the past local people, even the women who do not normally take part in such activities came out to protest against their presence in the Neelam Valley.

While talking to Dr Shabir Choudhry, Afzal Suleria, President of Kashmir National Party Azad Kashmir chapter said, ‘These armed militants are a big source of our problems in the region. They harass and intimidate local people. This area is used as a launching pad to send armed militants across the Line of Control that they can commit acts of violence there. Normal practise is before the armed militants are sent across, army start shelling and in response the Indian army also retaliate and people of Jammu and Kashmir suffer on both sides of the divide.’

He said, ‘The local people enjoyed some peace and stability after the cease fire was announced some years ago; but peace does not suit some people who have interest in promotion of violence, terrorism and hatred.’

KNP President said, ‘Because of peace and improved relationship between India and Pakistan, this summer we had a record number of tourists in the area which greatly helped the local economy; but this is disliked by those who run affairs of this region, including militant outfits who commit acts of violence for financial and ideological reasons.’

The KNP President further said, ‘We want to protest against the presence of the armed militants in the region and for this purpose we will hold a Peace Rally and a Peace Conference in the Neelam Valley on 30^th September 2013. We will invite all those Kashmiris and Pakistanis who believe in peace and harmony; and who oppose violence, terrorism and hatred. All those people who want resolution of all disputes by a process of dialogue are welcomed to participate in this Peace Rally and Peace Conference.’

Afzal Suleria requested members of the civil society and media to send their representatives to support this event and provide appropriate media coverage to send a powerful message to those who promote violence and hatred.

All those interested can contact Afzal Suleria on: 0092 300 955 4155

Issued by Dr Shabir Choudhry. 0044 7790 942 471