New Delhi: Indicating that the talks with Hurriyat Conference would be delayed, Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil today (May 24, 2004) said that the amalgam leaders will have to decide whether they want to talk to the new Government.

The Centre, he said, would also have to study the progress made in parleys with the Hurriyat so far.

"Our Government believes in the essence of dialogue and we also want to continue with the parleys. But maybe Hurriyat will also have to think whether they want to talk to us. We will also have to study the progress made in earlier rounds. So obviously, it will take some time," Patil told reporters after taking over as the Home Minister.

He was responding to a question whether the third round of talks with Hurriyat slated in June would be held on time.