AFSPA to stay,but forces will show maximum restraint: Omar

gAt the same time,we are also pursuing with Delhi the possibility of amending AFSPA by taking out draconian components so as to make it a humane Act. This is an ongoing process,’’ he added.

Referring to the cycle of violence going on in the Valley for the last one and a half months,he said: “I have given strict instructions to my security forces to exercise maximum restraint while dealing with crowds so that there is no loss of life. Over a period of time when there is no loss of life,people will gradually switch to normalcy,’’ he added.

When asked about militants being present among the stone-pelting crowds and opening fire on security forces,Omar said: “I have asked them to exercise restraint even if the crowd opens fire. It is most likely they may even hit a civilian who is not carrying arms.”

gThe situation in Kashmir has been a matter of concern for all of us and the government is making all efforts to restore law and order and normalcy,” he added.

About the National Conference’s demand for autonomy to the state,the chief minister ruled out any amendment in its autonomy document. However,making it clear that the party is not taking an extreme position on it as well,he said this was only the starting point for them for holding talks with the Centre. “Let us begin talks and,during the course of it,see what can be mutually agreeable,’’ he said.

Omar also made it clear that it was not feasible to pursue the single-track of autonomy with the Centre. He said: “It was more important to look at internal autonomy within the regions and sub regions so as to dispel any impression between regions of getting discriminated at the hands of each other,’’ he said,adding that this can be possible only with the devolution of powers between them as soon as possible. “A beginning in this direction can be done with the holding of Panchayat elections followed by local body polls in the state,’’ he pointed out.