Opposition seeks PM Modi's statement on release of Jammu and Kashmir separatist leader

NEW DELHI: Opposition led by Congress today created uproar in Rajya Sabha over the release of separatist leader Masarat Alam by the PDP-BJP government in Jammu and Kashmir demanding a clarification from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue.

Congress, TMC, JD-U and BSP raised the issue when the House met for the day, calling it a serious issue with implications on national security and demanded suspension of business to take up the issue.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said "as far as our government is concerned, there will be no compromise on national security" and Home Ministry has sought a report on the issue from the state government.

"Some preliminary facts have come and Home Minister will make a statement on issue," he said.

Deputy Chairman P J Kurien disallowed the motion but Congress members continued to press for a statement from Prime Minister and stormed into the well of the House, forcing adjournment of proceedings for 15 minutes.

Raising the issue Anand Sharma (Cong) alleged that the Jammu and Kashmir government was "encouraging separatists and anti-national activities. ... We cannot accept this... this country is not ready to accept this."

Mayawati (BSP) said after the controversial statement by Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed crediting Pakistan and separatists for the conduct of free and fair elections in the state, the release of separatist leader "is not in national interest. In one way it is anti-national."