Srinagar: Even as the long-awaited talks between Centre and Kashmiri separatists is yet to take off, rivalry between the two groups of Hurriyat Conference worsened with the pro-talks Ansari faction accusing the hardliners of creating hurdles in peaceful resolution of Kashmir issue.

Apparently referring to the rival faction of Hurriyat led by Syed Shah Geelani, senior executive member of Maulana Abbas Ansari-led faction Mirwaiz Umer Farooq also warned of a "civil war" if these leaders don't desist from speaking against the efforts aimed at resolving Kashmir problem peacefully.

"Some of our colleagues are out to vitiate the atmosphere that is being built to find out a way to solve the long-pending dispute between India, Pakistan and the people of Jammu and Kashmir," Mirwaiz said.

"They should bear it in mind that their negative and irresponsible attitude can trigger a civil war in Kashmir," he added.

Terming the thaw in the relations between India and Pakistan as a good omen for the people of Kashmir, Mirwaiz, addressing the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid, assured people that "once the invitation comes from Delhi, we will not proceed an inch unless the decision, whatever, is ratified by the people of Kashmir".

Mirwaiz said the talks between the Centre and Hurriyat would be strictly centred to the resolution of Kashmir issue.

"Talks would be centred on resolution of Kashmir issue and won't be for reconstruction of roads or railway tracks, nor do they include anything about Government formation, subsidies, decentralisation of power or any other package."

PTI