NEW DELHI, May 16 (Xinhua) -- The Indian government on Wednesday announced it would halt military operations against militants during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan in restive Indian-controlled Kashmir.
"The centre asks security forces not to launch operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramadan. Decision taken to help the peace-loving Muslims observe Ramadan in a peaceful environment," home minister Rajnath Singh wrote on twitter.
However, Singh said the security forces would retaliate if they came under any militant attack.
"Security forces to reserve the right to retaliate if attacked or if essential to protect the lives of innocent people," Singh said.
Singh said he expects cooperation from the stakeholders.
"Government expects everyone to cooperate in this initiative and help the Muslim brothers and sisters to observe Ramzan peacefully and without any difficulties," Singh said. "It is important to isolate the forces that bring a bad name to Islam by resorting to mindless violence and terror."
Indian-controlled Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has welcomed the federal government's move.
Mufti said such a decision will go a long way in creating a peaceful and amicable environment for a sustained dialogue process.
A guerilla war and separatist movement has been going on in Indian-controlled Kashmir since 1989.
Kashmir, the Himalayan region divided between India and Pakistan, is claimed by both in full. Since their independence from Britain, the two countries have fought three wars, two exclusively over Kashmir.
