J&K Governor Satya Pal: Pakistan has no role to play in any problem that concerns state

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Thursday alleged that the successive governments in the state, where corruption and nepotism were “at their peak”, do not make an optimal use of the assistance provided by the Centre.

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Malik was addressing a lecture at Patna University where he stated that “Pakistan has no role to play in Kashmir” and weighed that no talks will be held with those who intend to make a party with neighbouring country – an oblique reference to separatist groups.

The Governor said, “The Centre has been generously doling out funds for the development of Jammu and Kashmir, which is essential to bring about peace in the state. But those at the helm of affairs in the state have never been up to the mark. The twin evils of corruption and nepotism are at their peak in Jammu and Kashmir."

Before taking up the gubernatorial assignment in the communally sensitive northern state, Malik served as the Governor of Bihar.

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"Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Pakistan has no role to play in any problem that concerns the state. And, we cannot deal with anybody who seeks to make Pakistan a party in matters relating to Jammu and Kashmir," he added.

He admitted that when he was offered to serve as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, he was anxious, as he was entering a state amid political turmoil, which followed the resignation of Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and imposition of Governor’s Rule.

However, Malik took it as a challenge that was worth accepting and enjoying.