Date:06/11/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/11/06/stories/2006110618280100.htm

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Infiltration has doubled this year: Azad

Rejects demand for reduction of troops

Innocent people cannot be left at the mercy of terrorists

Ridicules demand for self-rule

New Delhi: Pakistani infiltration into Jammu and Kashmir has doubled this year, according to Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad who has, consequently, ruled out reduction of troops.

An estimated 500 infiltrators have crossed into the State in the first 10 months, he told PTI here, recalling that in the corresponding period last year the figure was less than 200.

Firmly rejecting a Pakistani suggestion for reduction of troops, he made it clear that innocent people could not be left at the mercy of terrorists.

Mr. Azad, who has just completed one year in office, dismissed Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf's proposal for self-rule . — PTI