India won't stop security ops in Kashmir

NEW DELHI, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- India says it won't suspend security operations against separatist groups in Jammu & Kashmir state despite a unilateral cease-fire by insurgents.

Interior Ministry officials said Indian forces in Jammu & Kashmir were unlikely to suspend operations against groups though the United Jihad Council, which is based in Pakistani Kashmir, said it would observe a three-day unilateral cease-fire from Oct. 12-14 to mark Eid.

The Interior Ministry said the government won't reciprocate unless groups outside the umbrella of the UJC expressed willingness to stop strikes against civilians and Indian forces, The Hindu newspaper said Wednesday.

“We’re considering the options,” a senior official said, “but do not wish to repeat past mistakes.”

In December 2000 India had responded positively to an eight-day Hizb-ul-Mujahideen’s cease-fire and suspended security operations for five months. The termination of operations led to a steep rise in civilian fatalities.

Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said he has not yet discussed the cease-fire with his officials and Cabinet colleagues. Two political parties, part of the ruling coalition, say they support a cease-fire as it will help end violence in the state.