Date:30/10/2002 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2002/10/30/stories/2002103005480100.htm

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No discrimination, says Mufti

By Shujaat Bukhari

SRINAGAR OCT. 29. Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was today unanimously elected Leader of the PDP Legislature Party, clearing the decks for his taking over as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. He, along with the other coalition partners, will stake claim to form the government at a meeting with the Governor, G. C. Saxena, tomorrow.

Later, Mr. Sayeed told the media that he was committed to peace with dignity and honour in Kashmir. "History has posed a challenge to us and we will work together to live up to the expectations of the people. It is no kingship and everyone of us will be part of decision-making," he said. His government would ensure equal development of all the three regions of the State. "There will be no discrimination."

Asked about the threat by the Hizbul Mujahideen to step up militant activities, he avoided a reply and said: "We will continue with our programme to withdraw POTA and disband the Special Operations Group."

On his arrival from Delhi on Monday, Mr. Sayeed was given a rousing reception at his Nowgam residence, where he declared that he would persuade the Centre to initiate an unconditional dialogue with all sections of society, including those who were wielding the gun.

"We have succeeded in including our promises in the Common Minimum Programme and will now work for its implementation. We will not compromise on the basic issues." His first priority would be to give "a healing touch" to the suffering people.

Assuring a corruption-free and responsive government, Mr. Sayeed said that a bill on the pattern of the Lok Pal, which would make politicians accountable, would be introduced. Complimenting the people for braving threats while coming to vote, the PDP chief said, "We will not let you down."

The PDP vice-president, Muzaffar Hussain Beig, said the new government would strive for giving employment to the educated youth. "We will go to every part of India and explore the possibilities for the employment in consultation with other governments."