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Jagmohan blames Pakistan for Kashmir trouble

Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Jagmohan has said the problem in the troubled state is a result of terrorism ''generated, funded, equipped and trained'' from across the border.

Jagmohan made this statement at the 100th international parliamentary union conference in Moscow on Tuesday night, to set the "record straight" in view of some comments made by Pakistan's representative about Kashmir.

While welcoming the willingness expressed by the Pakistani side for substantial and pragmatic dialogue, he said India has always been supportive of enhanced people-to-people contact. The Simla Agreement between the two countries provides the basic framework for developing the relationship and resolving the differences on bilateral matters, he added.

Referring to the nuclear tests, he said India conducted the tests due to security reasons. However, the country remains committed to non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament.

The government has already taken unilateral steps in terms of declaring no first use and a voluntary moratorium on further tests, he pointed out.

Jagmohan said the Indian people and government are committed to good neighbourly relations with Pakistan. Discussions between representatives of the two countries have taken place at various levels. More meetings are also planned.

He expressed the hope that Pakistan would work with India in fighting the menace of drugs and terrorism.

UNI

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