india.gov.in

Press Releases[Back]

Click here for printable Version

March 30, 2007
New Delhi

Government sets up mechanism for Jammu and Kashmir

After reviewing the situation in Jammu & Kashmir, the Government of India, in consultation with the Government of J&K, has decided to set up a mechanism to examine some of the problematic aspects of the current situation. The proposed mechanism would comprise :

* An Expert Panel to be headed by the Defence Secretary. The Panel would include representatives from the Ministries of Defence, Home Affairs, the Armed Forces and the J&K Government. The Panel would be an expert and professional body intended to carry out an in‑depth assessment of the situation. It would determine whether there is need to relocate and reconfigure Security Forces. While making its determination, the Panel should ensure that cardinal aspects of security are not compromised in any manner.

* A Review Committee to undertake a review of the application of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act to different areas of J&K. This would conform to legal requirements for a periodic review of the application of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act.

* A High Power Committee headed by the Raksha Mantri which would comprise representatives of the Central and J&K Governments and would be empowered to take decisions on the recommendations made by the Expert Panel and the Review Committee.

The State Government has already initiated action to return several of the properties, buildings and orchards occupied by the Security Forces for logistic purposes. A Nodal Officer would, however, be appointed to survey the remaining properties occupied by the Security Forces and determine how many more of these could be restored to their owners. If this is not possible, the compensation to be paid would be determined in consultation with the State Government.

Further, and in keeping with the humane approach of the Union and the J&K Governments, the existing guidelines regarding the functioning of the Security Forces would be reiterated and publicity given to these guidelines.