Respect human rights in Kashmir: Norwegian FM to India

Norway has expressed its concern on the fresh violence in Kashmir and urged India to respect human rights. "I fully share the concern for the situation in Kashmir. Human rights standards should be followed by all countries, of course, also by India.

Young people who throw stones should not be met by sharp shots," Jonas Gahr Store, Norwegian,Foreign Minister told the Norwegian parliament during a maiden debate on Kashmir conflict earlier this week.

Jonas said, the stalled talks between India and Pakistan on Kashmir have resulted in renewed violence this year resulting in death of 110 civilians.

"There is great frustration among Kashmir's population over a political situation that seems to be stuck. Violence has increased since June last year. In the period from June to September, more than 110 civilians were killed," he said

He impressed upon both India and Pakistan to solve the 63-year old dispute giving due consideration to the aspiration of Kashmiris to arrive at a final settlement.

"I have discussed the situation in Kashmir during my visit. We have urged both parties to seek to resolve the conflict by peaceful means and help to avoid new waves of violence, and that local residents' wishes and views should be given considerable weight in a future solution of the conflict." he said

The minister said that his country is closely following the situation in Kashmir and is in constant touch with both the governments to solve the Kashmir dispute through dialogue to avoid fresh violence.

"The embassy in New Delhi has taken up the situation in Kashmir with the Indian authorities, both at central level and with state authorities," he informed the parliament.


(2010-11-19/Kashmir Dispatch)