Hizb asks J&K Minister to join militant cadres

SRINAGAR: The Hizbul Mujahideen, the single largest indigenous militant group active in Jammu and Kashmir, has asked Transport Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen to join the outfit.

In a statement to the local media here, Hizb spokesman Junaid-ul-Islam said his outfit was active on various spheres, including political front, in Jammu and Kashmir.

''Hakeem Yaseen is welcome to become a part of the Hizb. But, we know it very well that he has no courage to do so,'' he added.

Hakeem Yaseen had recently said he would join the outfit if its chief Syed Salahuddin returned to Kashmir.

''People in Jammu and Kashmir should remain aware of these political gimmicks. Hakeem Yaseen has the habit of changing parties to satiate his political interests. And this time, he is using Syed Salahuddin's name for the purpose,'' the spokesman said.