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No move to impose Governor's rule in J&K: Fernandes

By Shujaat Bukhari

SHARIEFABAD (BUDGAM) AUG. 3. Stating that the schedule for the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir had been announced on the recommendations of the State Government, the Defence Minister, George Fernandes, today ruled out the imposition of Governor's rule in the State. He also said that the issue of de-escalation of the security forces on the border could be considered only if the situation becomes normal.

Addressing the troops at the headquarters of the counter-insurgent Kilo Force here, Mr. Fernandes said the announcement about the poll dates was made on the recommendations of the State Government and keeping in view the security situation prevailing in the State. "External forces, particularly our neighbour, would put every effort to disrupt the elections. But we are ready to foil these attempts and will ensure security to those taking part in the elections."

To a question later, the Minister said, "if the elections are now announced by the Government, one should hope that elections are conducted properly and there is no effort to sabotage the process''.

On the possibility of imposition of Governor's rule, he said: "there is no such proposal at the moment''.

Mr. Fernandes said there is no war because "our troops are there''. Otherwise, Pakistan has done everything to threaten the nation's integrity, he added.

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