Kashmir: Autonomy only solution, independence not reality: Dr Abdullah

Srinagar, Nov 11: Reiterating that a greater autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) was the only solution to the problem in the sub-continent, former Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah said since the region was landlocked and surrounded by three nuclear powers, independence was not a reality.

Talking to mediapersons on the sideline of a function at National Conference headquarter on Saturday, Dr Abdullah reiterated that autonomy was the only solution to resolve the long pending issue. 'Since we are landlocked surrounded by three nuclear powers — India, Pakistan and China — independent Kashmir was not a reality, the MP from Srinagar constituency said when asked to comment on the recent statement of Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi that there can be no freedom to Kashmir. Refusing to comment on the role of Hurriyat Conference (HC) and other separatists, the president of the main opposition National Conference (NC) Dr Abdullah said 'I have nothing with them.' However, he said, the Kashmir issue could not be resolved until Pakistan and India hold talks with the people of the Jammu and Kashmir.  UNI