PM Modi appeals for amicable and permanent solution for violence in Kashmir

On 22 August, during the meeting with the joint delegation of opposition parties led by former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his concerns over the current volatile situation in the Valley. He appealed to all political parties to find an amicable solution in order to restore order in the region.

Prime Minister Modi assured his government's commitment to the development of Jammu and Kashmir.

"Those who have lost their lives during the recent unrest are part of us, our nation. The loss of innocent lives, including that of the security or police personnel, distresses us," said Modi.

The Prime Minister conveyed that his government and the nation stand with the state of Jammu and Kashmir and suggested that all political parties should reach out to the people and convey the same.

Emphasising on dialogue, he said there is a need to find a permanent and lasting solution to the problems within the framework of the Constitution.

The joint delegation apprised Modi of the ground situation with an appeal to adopt a political approach in dealing with the present unrest in the Valley and initiate dialogue with all stakeholders immediately.

The delegation also submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Modi seeking immediate ban on pellet guns in the state.

"We also request you to advise relevant quarters against the policy of mass harassment, raids and arrests as this has worsened an already volatile situation in the state and goes against the values and principles of our democratic fabric and ethos," the memorandum said.

Pointing out that continued failure to address the unrest in Kashmir will further deepen the sense of alienation, the delegation hoped that the Prime Minister would take immediate measures to address this grave situation.

Earlier on Saturday, the delegation met President Pranab Mukherjee and apprised him of the situation prevailing in the state.

--ANI