Antony denies differences between Home and Defence ministries

THIRUVANTHAPURAM - Defence Minister A K Antony on Sunday denied existence of any differences within the ministries in the United Progressive Alliance government.

Speaking on the sidelines of a function at Santhigiri Ashram here, Antony said there were bound to be different points of view, but if the government took a collective decision, then it was the final word.

Asked about the reported differences between the Defence and Home Ministry over the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the Defence Minister said: “There are no serious differences. It is the same government. When we discuss anything there may be various point of views, ultimately if the government takes a decision that is final. There is no difference.”

The Minister’s comments came in context of the reports about the army and the paramilitary forces being blamed for firing at locals in the Kashmir valley which is witnessing a number of protests where people are demanding ‘freedom’.

He also mentioned that the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) would discuss the Kashmir issue on Monday (September 13). (ANI)