Avoid using pellet guns, Rajnath Singh tells security forces in Kashmir

Singh also said the Centre wants an emotional relationship with the state and not just need-based, even as he warned Pakistan not to interfere in India's internal affairs.

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Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. PTI Photo

Appealing to the youth to not resort to stone-pelting, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said he has asked the security forces to refrain from using pellet guns as much as possible even as he regretted the loss of lives.

Addressing a press conference here after winding up his two-day visit to the state after holding talks with Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and several delegations both in Srinagar and Anantnag, Rajnath said the Centre will talk to whosoever needed once peace and normalcy is restored in the state.

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“As far as Government of India is concerned, I want to make it clear that we don’t just want need-based ties, but to build an emotional relationship with Kashmir,” he said, reaching out to the people in the Valley while making a fervent appeal to them to help restore peace and normalcy in the state.

Singh also said the Centre wants an emotional relationship with the state and not just need-based, even as he warned Pakistan not to interfere in India’s internal affairs.

Sending a strong message to Pakistan, Rajnath also said the neighbouring country should change its attitude and approach towards Kashmir.

Clashes broke out between protesters and security forces a day after the killing of militant commander Burhan Wani in an encounter on July 8 resulting in 45 deaths.

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