End violence, we're ready for talks: PM to Kashmiris

In a firm message, Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh Sunday asked agitating Kashmiri youth to end violence saying it would not benefit anyone even as he offered to carry forward the dialogue process within the framework of the state being an integral part of India.

Addressing the nation on the 64th Independence Day against the backdrop of recent unrest in Kashmir, he said the Indian democracy has the "generosity and flexibility" to address concerns of any group.

In his 35-minute speech from the ramparts of historic Red Fort, Singh said India is willing to resolve differences with Pakistan through discussions but the dialogue cannot go far if terrorism emanating from there does not end.

The Prime Minister also made a fresh offer of talks to the Maoists, while described Naxalism as a "serious challenge" to internal security and stressed the need for rising above "personal and political interests" to deal with the menace firmly through Centre-state cooperation.

Singh said the government was ready to talk to Naxals if they abjure violence and emphasised that tribals should get benefits from development projects on the land acquired from them.

"We will deal firmly with those who resort to violence. I once again appeal to Naxalites to abjure violence, come to talks with government and join hands with us to accelerate social and economic development," Singh said in his address from the ramparts of the Red Fort after unfurling the national flag on 64th Independence Day here.