Washington wants India to ease down restrictions in Kashmir

NEW YORK: Washington wants India to ease down curfew in Indian occupied Kashmir, said U.S official on Thursday. 

The official was addressing press when she said that the U.S has pressed India to lift up the restrictions in the Kashmir valley. She also stated that President Donald Trump has offered India and Pakistan his help in mediating between the countries. The president is concerned about the tensions. 

 Alice Wells, the top state department official for South Asia, said to the reporters “We hope to see rapid action — the lifting of the restrictions and the release of those who have been detained.”

President Donald Trump has met with Prime Minister Imran Khan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on separate occasions, he has shown his willingness to mediate between the countries and to do his part in resolving the Kashmir issue.

On August 5th, India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir by repealing Article 370. It is since then, Indian authorities have detained thousands of Kashmiri people and top leaders. 

The restrictions have become harsher, the population of Kashmir is under complete lockdown for the past 53 days. 

“The United States is concerned by widespread detentions, including those of politicians and business leaders, and the restrictions on the residents of Jammu and Kashmir,” Wells said.

“We look forward to the Indian government´s resumption of political engagement with local leaders and the scheduling of the promised elections at the earliest opportunity,” she said.

Kashmir is a disputed territory between two countries, both, India and Pakistan have fought several wars for the territory, lost thousands of people and spent billions of dollars.

“The world would benefit from reduced tensions and increased dialogue between the two countries and, given these factors, the president is willing to mediate if asked by both parties,” she said.