CPI(M) asks Centre, Jammu and Kashmir to convene an all-party meeting

NEW DELHI: CPI(M) today urged the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir government to call an all-party meeting to discuss efforts to end the "growing strife" in the Valley, which is witnessing protests over the killing of Hizbul poster boy Burhan Wani, and restore peace there.

"Both the central and the Jammu and Kashmir government, in which BJP is a coalition partner, must initiate a dialogue with all political forces and groups to end the growing strife in the state and restore peace and normalcy. At the central level, the Home Minister must convene an all-party meeting immediately," party politburo said in a statement.

"Deteriorating situation in Kashmir is a cause of grave concern. Govt must start political process immediately (sic)," party General Secretary Sitaram Yechury tweeted.

Deteriorating situation in Kashmir is a cause of grave concern. Govt must start political process immediately. pic.twitter.com/7N3Wx8yvOM

— Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) July 11, 2016

Terming the incidents in Kashmir as "condemnable", it said the administration should desist from using "excessive" force against the protesters and demanded that those responsible must be identified and punished.

"While the activities of extremist groups need to be checked to maintain law and order and civilian rule, it cannot be an excuse for the use of force against stone-throwing protesters," it said.