Srinagar: Kashmiris accused Pakistani political parties yesterday of turning their back on them and their struggle against an alleged Indian occupation after last month's elections in Pakistan.

Anger simmered in Kashmir after Asif Ali Zardari, leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), told an Indian television channel that relations between India and Pakistan should not be held "hostage" to the Kashmir issue.

Zardari angered Kashmiris when he said the two countries could wait so that future generations resolve the dispute in an atmosphere of trust.

"Zardari is ready to sell us to India like chickens," said 25-year-old student Gouse Mohammad.