Samiti agrees to J-K peace deal, conditions apply

Preeti Singh , CNN-IBN
Posted on Aug 23, 2008 at 23:09 | Updated Aug 23, 2008 at 23:24

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New Delhi: The Governor's panel on Saturday proposed a compromise solution for the Amarnath land row.

It proposed that the Amarnath Sangharsh Samiti could use the 100 acres of forestland during the three months of the Amarnath Yatra every year.

Sources in the Amarnath Sangharsh Samiti have told CNN-IBN that they are willing to call off their agitation if they are allowed to use the 100-acre forestland for three months every year.

It is indicated by the sources that the Samiti is not pressing for a permanent transfer of land, but only seeking legal rights to use the land.

Meanwhile, as the third round of talks between the Samiti and the Governor's panel concludes, the panel has sought 72 hours to find an honourable solution to the issue.

However, the Samiti says their agitation will continue till a solution is concluded.

Nevertheless, even after three meetings, a formula to solve the Amarnath land transfer row is yet to be finalised.

Although indications have been positive ever since the Amarnath Sangrash Samiti's four-member team and the Governor-appointed four-member panel met on Saturday morning.

“The meeting has been fruitful and productive,” says advisor to Governor, SS Boleria.

Meanwhile, the Samiti has sought more discussions on the details of the arrangement. It has also stayed firm on its demand that the Amarnath shrine board be re-constituted with larger representation from Jammu.

“I am a lay man and we only want land should come back to Baba Amaranth and more powers should be given to the board,” says Member, Amarnath Sangharsh Samiti, Suchet Singh.

“We have submitted our final points and once they are approved by the Govt. the final decision would come in the fourth round of talks. Till the time demands are fulfilled, our agitation will continue. The talks were positive,” he added.

Even as indications in Jammu were positive, the government has been worried about a violent retaliation in Kashmir.

Meanwhile, reports say the valley seems to be edgy. And that could be the reason why a hasty announcement on the decisions reached at the meeting with Samiti leaders was not made.

More on: Amarnath land transfer, Amarnath Shrine Board, BJP, sangharsh samiti, Kashmir Monitor