Talks if militants give up violence, says Advani

NEW DELHI, JUNE 24. The Union Home Minister, Mr. L.K. Advani has said the Government was ready to hold talks with Kashmir militant groups provided they accept the Indian constitution and abjure the path of violence and terrorism.

``If they accept the Indian constitution and leave the path of violence and terrorism, any issue can be discussed. So far, no talks have taken place and therefore we cannot disclose our views or stand on the issues involved,'' he told the pro-RSS journal, `Panchajanya' in London.

He said the issue of autonomy had been raised in Kashmir while the NDA election manifesto favoured more powers to the States.

The report on autonomy was being considered by the Centre, a release from the journal quoted him as having said.

Three Lashkar militants killed

Three top members of the Lashker-e-Taiba's suicide squad were killed when the Army foiled an attack on its post by the militant outfit in Poonch district today, official sources said.

The militants attacked the Army post in Surankote area at 2 a.m. and in the ensuing gunbattle three of them were killed.

- PTI

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