Before tomorrow's Kashmir visit, EU delegation meets PM Modi

On August 5, BJP moved the J&K Reorganization Bill in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill revoked Article 370 and split the state into two UTs.

But before the historic move, the government upped security, snapped communication modes, and detained politicians.

Though the restrictions were lifted gradually (J&K was opened for tourists), situation isn't normal as forces still dot the streets.

Though superpowers like the US and Russia stood with PM Modi, despite Pakistan's constant jibes, of late questions are being raised about denial of basic amenities.

And looks like Centre wants to tell the world everything is fine. Hence, it allowed the delegation, consisting of over 25 MPs to assess the situation.

Apart from PM Modi, the delegation also met NSA Ajit Doval.

About the group's meeting, PM Modi's office said, "Prime Minister, while welcoming the delegation to India, expressed the hope that they have a fruitful visit to various parts of the country, including to Jammu and Kashmir."

The statement added this visit will give the delegation a better understanding of the cultural and religious diversity of the region, and tell them about government's priorities.

After having a word with PM Modi, one of the members of the delegation said the former explained why revoking Article 370 was necessary.

"But I want to see on the ground how it actually is and talk to some local people. What we all want is normalcy and peace for everyone," BN Dunn said.

All the 27 members will fly to J&K tomorrow.

To recall, earlier this month, Chris Van Hollen, a US Senator from Democratic Party, was denied permission to visit J&K.

Later, Hollen said the government told him it wasn't the "right time" to visit the state.

"My personal view is that if you have nothing to hide, there is nothing to fear by allowing visitors to the state," he had told IE.

Now, BJP might be hoping that this visit gets it some brownie points in the international forum, and perhaps fewer brickbats back home, but a member of the party feels this isn't the right decision.

Subramanian Swamy, known for not mincing his words, said this is a "perversion" of foreign policy and urged the Ministry of External affairs to cancel this "immoral" visit.