Shortly before news of the Pakistani nuclear tests, leaders of the separatist movement in Indian administered Kashmir urged Pakistan to exercise restraint.

The chairman of the All-Party Hurriyat conference, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, said Pakistani tests would make the situation in the region even more dangerous.

Another leader, Gani Lone, who was released from prison on Wednesday, said it would be of more help to the people of Kashmir if Pakistan did not retaliate.