Srinagar, December 20 (Scoop News) –While welcoming talks between leaders of certain separatist groups of Kashmir and Islamabad, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Thursday emphasized similar dialogue between them and New Delhi adding that lopsided dialogue process would not yield any result.
“After returning from Pakistan they should also talk to Indian leadership. No one has put any condition for talks for them”, he said adding that separatists should put their agenda before the people and accordingly initiate dialogue with Government of India unconditionally to work out solution to J&K centric political issues acceptable to all stakeholders.
Referring that separatist group which has not gone to Pakistan for talks, the Chief Minister said that when it is an universal truth that militancy has achieved nothing and dialogue is only way forward to settle problems, the other separatist group should also get involved in talks to address complex issues for the good of general public and peace and prosperity in the State.
The Chief Minister was speaking at a function after inaugurating 76 metres long old heritage Zainakadal Timber Bridge after it has been restored and made pliable for pedestrian and light vehicles. He also laid foundation of new bridge downstream Jhelum in Zainakadal area.
Minister for Rural Development, Ali Mohammad Sagar was present on the occasion.
Omar Abdullah said that peace is imperative for development and help generate wide-ranging economic activities and employment opportunities for people in general and youth in particular. “We all have to work together to maintain peace and help push forward process of development”, he said.
Describing Srinagar heart of Kashmir and Shahr-e-Khas (Old City) heart of Srinagar, Omar Abdullah said that the State has witnessed disturbance and militancy during the period of over 20 years marring avenues of economic prosperity, education, health, trade and day to day activities of life process. “Shahr-e-Khas has born the severe brunt of this situation and its economy and development received heavy jolt”, he said adding that in order to pull this area out of the economic distress and open vistas of progress for all sections of the society in the area, his government has initiated various programmes.
“We want to showcase the heritage, handicrafts and art and artisans of this area at international tourist map and rope in visitors from all over the country and aboard here”, he said adding that over 12 lakh visitors visited the Valley this year galvanizing the economy of a huge chunk of population dependent on tourism activities.
Leave Your Comments