Jaishankar defends communication blockade in Kashmir

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has defended the restrictions on communication in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of abrogation of Article 370, saying it is necessary to prevent communications between “terrorists and their masters”.

“It wasn’t possible to stop communications between militants without an impact on all of Kashmir. How do I cut off communication between the terrorists and their masters on the one hand, but keep the internet open for other people? I would be delighted to know,” he said in an interview with ‘Politico’ newspaper in Brussels, Belgium.

Jaishankar, who was in Brussels on a state visit, ruled out talks with Pakistan as long as it continued to harbour terrorists.

On Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s offer of “conditional talks” over the Kashmir issue, Jaishankar said India would not be able to think of dialogue when Pakistan “openly practises terrorism".

Khan, in an editorial published in New York Times, had offered to hold talks if New Delhi reverses its decisions to abrogate Articles 370 and 35-A, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The Union Minister also dismissed reports of shortages of medicines and essential items in Kashmir. He also hinted at reduction in the number of security forces in the coming days.

India on August 5 abrogated Articles 370 and 35-A of the Constitution and divided Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. Ever since, tensions have been running high with Pakistan. The bilateral trade and train and bus services between the two countries have been suspended.