October 26, 2010 6:30 PM

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Jethmalani supports interlocutors, Padgaonkar-led group to wind up visit today

BJP Rajya Sabha member Ram Jethmalani today opposed the party line by coming out in support of the Kashmir interlocutors, saying it is childish and churlish to accuse them of internationalising the issue. Stating that interlocutor Dileep Padgaonkar and his team's task of finding a peaceful and lasting solution to the Kashmir problem is almost superhuman, Jethmalani said, he fervently prayed for their success, despite having serious misgivings. The MP said, even if they achieve partial result the nation would owe them a debt of gratitude. Earlier, BJP had accused Padgaonkar of internationalising the Kashmir problem after he said a solution to the issue was not possible without involving Pakistan. The party had also questioned whether he was given the brief to make such statements by the Centre and sought a clarification from the Prime Minister's Office on the matter.Meanwhile, the Group of three interlocutors, appointed by Centre on Jammu and Kashmir, will wind-up its first visit to the valley today. During the four-day stay in Srinagar, the group interacted with various groups of people, particularly students and youth, to ascertain their views and expressions. The group headed by senior Journalist Dileep Patgaonkar, also interacted with State Governor N.N. Vohra, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and senior leader of opposition Peoples Democratic Party Muzaffar Hussain Baig.AIR correspondent adds that even though the separatists have stayed away from the group so far, the deliberations of the group are bound to affect the discourse of the separatists and focus seems to be shifting from slogans to practical areas.

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