After Ladakh group, Kargil bloc quits talks; sets conditions

SRINAGAR: Kargil Democratic Alliance ( KDA ) joined Apex Body Leh (ABL) in withdrawing from talks with the Centre, demanding a judicial probe into the Sept 24 firing by security forces in Leh that killed four protesters and wounded more than 80.

Talks with the Union home ministry ’s high-powered committee had been scheduled for Oct 6. Both ABL and KDA stressed Tuesday they remain open to dialogue, but only after their conditions are met.

KDA co-chairman Asgar Ali Karbalai said in New Delhi no talks would be possible unless a retired Supreme Court judge is appointed to investigate the firing, those arrested are freed, and charges against climate activist Sonam Wangchuk are withdrawn.

“Our demands are genuine and legitimate. Dialogue cannot happen at gunpoint,” he said. The KDA team was already in New Delhi, while an ABL delegation was to travel to the national capital Tuesday.