No need to withdraw AFSPA in Kashmir: Advani

Thiruvananthapuram: Senior BJP Leader L K Advani today said the Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) need not be withdrawn in Kashmir as the move would weaken the position of the Armed Forces in the region. Talking to reporters here, Mr Advani, whose ‘Jan Chetna Yatra entered the 19th day today,’ said the Armed Forces had made remarkable contribution so far in facing the enemies there. ”As far as Jammu and Kashmir is concerned, nothing should be done to weaken the position of the Armed Forces. ‘I don’t think, the Armed Forces Special Power Act need to be withdrawn,” he said, adding if necessary, the case of Manipur need to be examined separately. Referring to the recovery of explosive materials on his yatra route in Madurai District of Tamil Nadu yesterday, Mr Advanicomplimented the Tamil Nadu Government and the police for acting swifty. ”However, those behind the incident should be located and the matter should be investigated further,” he added.