Mehsud group’s separation termed big blow to TTP

ISLAMABAD: Analysts have described the Mehsud faction’s parting its ways with the Tehrik-i-Taliban (TTP) as a big blow to the proscribed outfit, saying the latest development has opened more options for the government.

However, the analysts have warned that Mehsud group’s links with ‘Punjabi Taliban’ and al-Qaeda may be dangerous.

Former diplomat and member of Taliban negotiation committee, Rustam Shah Mohmand said that the separation would prompt Mehsud group to engage in separate talks with the government and try to secure a peace accord.

Expert of tribal areas and Afghan affairs, Rahimullah Yousafzai terms the separation as breaking of the backbone of the Taliban. This may lead to further disintegration of the outlawed TTP, he added.

Earlier, spokesman of TTP’s Mehsud faction Azam Tariq addressing a press conference said that TTP’s control has fallen into the hands of invisible forces due to the presence of a gang of plotters within.

He said that the controversy over sect, cult and ideology has given rise to mistrust and misgivings among other factions of the TTP.

“We tried our best for reforms and unity within the TTP, but the gang of plotters seemed to have succeeded,” he said.

Azam Tariq is also the member of TTP’s central shura.

Sussanne: You cannot blame Arjun Rampal for my separation from Hrithik Roshan

Sussanne has put to rest all the buzz surrounding her relationship with good friend Arjun

Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne’s separation took their family, friends and fans by surprise. When Hrithik issued a statement to the media announcing his split with wife Sussanne, there were also rumours doing rounds about the reason why the once ‘it’ couple of B-town was heading for a separation. Reports suggested that Sussanne growing proximity with Hrithik’s good friend Arjun Rampal was what caused trouble in their marriage. However soon after this Arjun Rampal too issued a statement denying all these reports. Rumour mills were pouring out details of how Arjun’s wifey Mehr Jessia was mighty pissed with her hubby and even suspected that her husband had gotten too close for comfort with friend Sussanne on the pretext of supporting her during tough times.

However yesterday’s scene at Bandra 190 store launch had stark contrast to all that was said and heard in the last few days. Friends of the Roshans came in full support of Sussanne everyone from Arjun Rampal-Mehr Jessia, Shahrukh and Gauri Khan, Salman Khan, Arbaaz and Malaika Arora Khan were present. Not only that, Sussanne also decided to clear Arjun’s name from the rumours, she said, “You can’t blame anyone for this. It is sad to blame anyone. We are close-knit friends. It’s not right to blame anyone. There is no reason. Sometimes you have to do this because of a situation.”

The Rock On!! actor too decided to take this opportunity and clear his name, the actor told reporters, “If Sussanne and Hrithik are happy staying separately they should, one should close and old chapter and start a new one. I have stood by Sussanne because she is like my family member.”