Kashmir unrest: PM Modi calls for amicable, permanent solution

Expressing deep concern and pain at the present crisis in the Kashmir Valley, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday urged all political parties to work together to find an amicable solution for restoration of normalcy in the region.

Prime Minister Modi assured his government's commitment to development of Jammu and Kashmir to a joint delegation of opposition parties led by former chief minister Omar Abdullah.

"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," he added.

Prime Minister Modi 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.

Emphasizing 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 Prime Minister Modi of the ground situation with an appeal to adopt a political approach in dealing with the present unrest in the Valley.

The delegation requested the Prime Minister to initiate dialogue with all stakeholders in the Kashmir valley 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.