Asserting that Kashmir issue cannot be tackled by the use of force, senior CPI-M leader Prakash Karat said that the BJP-led NDA government should find a political solution to this issue.

“The government cannot find a solution by using forces — CRPF, BSF or any other agencies in the trouble-torn Kashmir. The only way is to find a political solution,” he said while talking to reporters after being asked  by them.

On the Centre questioning the criticism of the Army by the Left parties, particularly the CPI-M, he said the Marxist party was against the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act which, he alleged, had draconian provisions, in not only in Kashmir but also in some North Eastern states.

With regard to comments by Kerala party secretary, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Karat here to attend two-day Party State Committee meeting, said that he had not made any comments on the army, but quoted some incidents involving some members of Armed Forces. Referring to Goods and Services Tax (GST), Karat said his party wanted a review of listing of commodities in various slabs, as some sectors, small businesses and manufacturing, will be severely affected by the present rates.

The government should have wide ranging consultations with organisations, associations and trader bodies before arriving at a final rate, he said.

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