NEW DELHI: India could reduce troops in parts of Indian-administered Kashmir and allow greater access to visitors from the Pakistani side, a top official said on Friday, as part of a political solution to months of violent anti-India protests.
But India’s army chief tempered expectations of an immediate withdrawal, saying there was “no need” to reduce the troops deployed.
Renewed strife in the region would put the Indian government under further pressure as it tries to fend opposition attacks over corruption charges and public anger at high inflation.
Home Secretary G.K. Pillai told Reuters the government was looking at cutting troops by “25 per cent in 12 months from populated areas”. The Himalayan region is at the heart of a six decade territorial dispute between India and Pakistan.
“If we can manage with local police, that would be the most ideal situation, and this is one of the confidence-building measures, that people don’t get harassed by the over-presence of security forces,” Pillai later told reporters.
“If peace comes, if violence is not there, people are comfortable, we can gradually reduce our presence and make sure that all forces are there only at the border for preventing infiltration.”
Pillai said the government was also considering giving Pakistani Kashmiris six-month, multiple entry permits to visit relatives on the Indian side. They now get a 15-day permit.
But speaking at a news conference the same day, India’s army chief dampened expectations of an immediate troop reduction.
“We have not felt the need so far to reduce the deployment. If they want to reduce paramilitary and police, I won’t say anything,” said V.K. Singh told reporters in New Delhi.
