Thaindian News

Srinagar, Sep 10 (IANS) A former prime minister of Pakistani Kashmir wants to attend a marriage ceremony in Srinagar later this month provided his request is approved by Indian authorities. He also intends to meet Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

According to a local news agency Saturday, Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan has formally approached the Indian authorities to be allowed with 24 other people including his son, daughter, son-in-law and some former ministers of Pakistani Kashmir to attend the marriage ceremony of a local businessman’s son.

“I will meet the elected chief minister, Omar Abdullah. I have no problem meeting him,” the news agency quoted Khan, adding that, if allowed, his visit would be the biggest CBM (confidence-building measure) between India and Pakistan.

“I want to act as a bridge between the two countries. I will come in my own car,” Khan told the news agency.

Commenting on the development, Omar Abdullah said he has already requested the central government to allow the visit, which would be “a golden opportunity to strengthen the CBMs between the two countries”.

“I am not sure whether he would be allowed to drive into the Valley in his own car, but so far as his request to attend the marriage ceremony is concerned, there should be no problem in allowing it,” he said.

Asked about Khan’s desire to meet him, Omar said: “It is good if he endorses that we are elected representatives of the people.”

If allowed, Khan would be the first politician ever from Pakistani Kashmir or, for that matter, from Pakistan to come to Kashmir after 1947.