Jammu and Kashmir: Government reaches out to Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti – first time since placed under detention

Jammu and Kashmir situation: The Centre has reached out to two former Jammu and Kashmir CMs Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, raising the possibility of their release and opening space for political dialogue in the Valley, a report in The Indian Express said. Citing highly placed sources, the report said that some officials from investigating agencies were in communication with the two leaders who are under detention ever since August 4.

“The political lockdown cannot continue forever. There has been some movement to sound out the two leaders for a possible easing of restrictions on them. There is a need to create space,” a source familiar with the developments told The Indian Express.

National Conference leader Omar and PDP chief Mehbooba were placed under detention on August 4, a day before the Modi government announced to scrap Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcate it into two Union Territories.