Separatist's release again raised in Rajya Sabha

New Delhi, March 10 (IANS) The issue of separatists being freed in Jammu and Kashmir was again raised in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, as members quoted reports saying 800 more were to be released.

"There are reports that 800 more separatists are being freed. A government being supported by the BJP is releasing separatists. Do they want to disturb peace in Kashmir again," Samajwadi Party leader Naresh Agarwal asked, raising the issue in the upper house.

Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien, however, said the issue had already been discussed "threadbare" and if the members want they could give notice for another debate.

Opposition members however kept raising the issue, creating ruckus in the house.

Congress leader Rajeev Shukla quoted media reports that said the release orders were signed by the Jammu and Kashmir governor.

"There are media reports that the release orders were given by the governor during president's rule. Government must clarify; was the house mislead? Did the governor give release order?" Shukla questioned.

Responding to the opposition members, Leader of the House Arun Jaitley said if members ask for some specific information, government can provide that.

"Yesterday (Monday) with regard to one separatist, the issue was raised in the house. The home minister made it clear he had certain reservations about the report he received and government has sought further clarifications," Jaitley said.

"He (Home Minister Rajnath Singh) further said there were different charges against this separatist and he was granted bail by various courts. If a specific case is brought up we will find the details. But if the house's time is to be taken up to claim that 10,000 people are being released, first of all confirm if there are 10,000 political prisoners in Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

Opposition members responded saying the number was 800.

"There has to be some sense of responsibility when me make such assertions in the house. You are saying 800. Give us one case and we will provide information," Jaitley added.

The release of separatist leader Masrat Alam in Jammu and Kashmir was raised in both houses of parliament on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a statement in Lok Sabha saying the centre was not consulted on release.

Rajnath Singh in his statements in both houses, said the government was not satisfied with the state government's clarification on the release and had asked for a fresh report.