J&K is disputed territory: Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz

A day after Union defence minister AK Antony asserted that entire Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, moderate Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq today took exception to the remark saying "it's a disputed territory".

A day after Union defence minister AK Antony asserted that entire Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, moderate Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Tuesday took exception to the remark saying "it's a disputed territory".

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"Jammu and Kashmir as it existed on August 14, 1947 was a disputed territory and its solution was still pending," said the Mirwaiz during his Ramzan sermon in Srinagar.

Describing Antony as "irresponsible", the Miwaiz said, "Such statements have not only potential to create tension between India and Pakistan, but it can also derail the ongoing talks between the two countries."

Antony on Monday told the Lok Sabha that the issue of illegal and forcible occupation of areas in Jammu and Kashmir by the neighbouring nation remains to be resolved.

"A part of the territory of the state (JK) is under illegal and forcible occupation of Pakistan. The issue that remains to be resolved in JK is the vacation by Pakistan of the area under its illegal occupation," said Antony.

Reacting sharply, the moderate separatist leader accused the Centre of dichotomy in its approach and words.

"On one hand, the Indian government talks of solving all pending issues with Pakistan including the major dispute of Jammu and Kashmir, while on the other the representative of India is issuing statements contrary to the reality, history, and international pledges and agreements," said the Mirwaiz.

The Mirwaiz said the solution of "vexed" Kashmir was imperative to bring stability and peace in the South Asia. "It's important for improvement in relations between the two countries- India and Pakistan," he added.