Srinagar, Apr 09: Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party led by Syed Saleem Geelani today joined the Maulana Abbas Ansari-led Hurriyat faction. Announcing the decision at a news conference at the Hurriyat headquarters, Geelani said the decision to join the Hurriyat was taken after giving considerable thought to the invitation extended to it by the separatist amalgam two months back.

He said his party's decision to support Hurriyat was also taken for the sake of unity among the separatists at this crucial juncture of the history of Jammu and Kashmir.

Geelani said his party is supporting the moves which are to unite the rival factions of the Hurriyat. On the talks between Hurriyat and the Centre, he said the talks were centred on resolution of Kashmir issue and were not for transfer of power or for granting concessions.

He said the talks would also be held with Pakistan by the Hurriyat leaders and wishes and aspirations of the people of the state would be respected.
Bureau Report