Mehbooba Mufti wants talks with separatists, sets other conditions for PDP-BJP alliance: Reports

The delay in the government formation in Jammu and Kashmir is the result of PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti's demands, say media reports.

Mehbooba has sought assurance from alliance partner, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of a free hand at the highest level, including certain immediate concessions.

Mehbooba wants the Centre-owned power projects based on state river to be handed over to state. She also wants to engage separatists in talks on Kashmir, and vacation of private lands occupied by the Indian Army.

Mufti Sayeed's daughter Mehbooba also wants BJP leaders and supporters to refrain from raking up controversial issues like Article 370 and beef ban.

The BJP has decided to wait for a PDP meeting, scheduled for January 31 in Srinagar, to take a call on the future course of action. PM Modi is yet to speak to Mehbooba Mufti on the issue.

Media reports say that the PDP is concerned about losing support in Kashmir, and hence Mehbooba has put forth these demands.

Meanwhile, even as the stalemate over government formation continues in Jammu and Kashmir, former CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed's family have given up their security and vacated his official residence.

According to an IBN report, the family not only vacated the residential house in Jammu, but also returned many security and government vehicles and personnel.

Mufti's wife Gulshan Bano took away her personal belongings from Jammu's Chief Minister residence.

The state was placed under President's rule on January 8, a day after Mufti Mohammad Sayeed's death.