Yasin Malik: A Controversial Figure in Kashmir's Peace Process

Kashmiri separatist leader Yasin Malik has asserted that he was a central figure in a government-sanctioned "backchannel" for nearly three decades, aimed at fostering peace in Jammu and Kashmir. His affidavit, submitted to the Delhi High Court, highlights his connections with political and intelligence leaders.

Malik, head of the banned Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front, submitted this information following a challenge to his life sentence by the National Investigation Agency. The agency seeks to increase his punishment to the death penalty, citing involvement in foreign funding for terrorism.

Malik's affidavit portrays him as a crucial player in preserving peace efforts, despite allegations against him. He recounts numerous high-level meetings and communications to maintain stability in Kashmir. However, he claims these efforts were dismantled with the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, marking a drastic shift in governmental policy.

(With inputs from agencies.)