Syed Ali Geelani thanks China and Pakistan for supporting the struggle in J&K

SRINAGAR|NEW DELHI: Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Geelani on Friday thanked China and Pakistan for ‘supporting’ the ‘struggle’ in Jammu and Kashmir. Geelani, who was not allowed to address a presser, released a video where he alleged that the Centre had prepared a list of separatists, traders and journalists to be killed.

Geelani’s allegations come after suggestions that the Centre withdraw security cover for separatist leaders who toe a pro-Pakistan line despite facing threat from terrorists sponsored by Islamabad. It may be recalled that Hurriyat leader Abdul Ghani Lone was gunned down by Pakistansponsored terrorists in 2002, while trying to join mainstream politics.

Geelani, a former member of the Jamaat-e-Islami, hinted that the separatists would continue to incite violence. “The current phase of freedom struggle has provided a powerful push towards our goal of freedom, which is very much in sight.” He claimed Pakistan had proved it was a friend and well wisher. “We are also thankful to countries like China, Norway, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, Iran and the Organisation of Islamic countries for expressing concern.”

In a related development, Army chief Dalbir Singh, who was in the state on Friday, said there was a need to synergise efforts with all stakeholders while assuring support to bring normalcy, particularly in south Kashmir. Singh urged troops to sensitise people, especially the youth to eschew violence and usher in peace. The Army chief interacted with DGP J&K K Rajendra and briefed governor NN Vohra on initiatives taken to restore normalcy in the state.

Meanwhile, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation has invited Mirwaiz Umer Farooq for a meeting of its foreign ministers.