New Delhi, Anantnag, Srinagar:
After Prime Minister Manmohan Singh held a high-level meeting to discuss the Kashmir situation on Wednesday, the Centre accused the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) of stoking the fire in Kashmir.
Home Minister P Chidambaram, Defence Minister A K Antony and top officials were present at the crucial meet in New Delhi.
The Centre conceded the need for political steps and asked Omar Abdullah to visit some disturbed areas.
"We will support the state government in restoring the law and order situation. I hope the situation will come under control in the next few days," Chidambaram told a media briefing in New Delhi after the PM's meet. (
Watch: Centre to back J&K govt to restore order: Chidambaram)In a stern message on Tuesday, Omar Abdullah said though security forces have been directed to maintain utmost restraint, they will have to enforce curfew strictly. (
Read: Forces will show restraint, but curfew will be imposed: Omar)
Backing the statement, Chidambaram said, "The Chief Minister's statement has been reasonable, clear and firm. We have instructed the para-military forces to exercise maximum restraint in dealing with stone-pelters and also asked the Chief Minister and his ministers to visit the disturbed areas."
On Wednesday, the Kashmir valley woke up to a tenuous calm, after days of violence, as large parts of the state remained under curfew.
With thousands of CRPF men and police deployed in all major towns across the valley's 10 districts, curfew and restrictions were strictly enforced. The day passed off without any more casualties, though sporadic clashes were reported from some areas.
Amid tension in the valley, the first batch of pilgrims arrived in south Kashmir today for the Amarnath Yatra. (
Read: Amarnath Yatra in the midst of protests) The yatris take the route through Anantnag, a town that saw violent clashes between protesters and security forces on Tuesday. (
Read: Violence spreads to south Kashmir, 3 killed in Anantnag firing)
It's a tense calm in the valley and the curfew and restrictions will remain in place indefinitely.
From north to south Kashmir, the valley is literally being managed by the police and security forces to deal with the crisis. The government hopes that curfew and security restrictions will help to douse the flames and calm tempers.