PM Modi's assertion 'a fresh healing touch' for Kashmir: PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks on Kashmir and said that his words were the beginning of a fresh healing touch for the violence-hit valley.

"It is a very welcome development having come as a climax to the outpouring of concern and solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir that was expressed throughout the country by different political parties. And in the Parliament debates it was reflected and now the Prime Minister channelizing it in his own inimitable style and speaking directly to the people of Kashmir," said PDP leader Naeem Akhtar.

"I think it is a very significant development and we welcome it. We feel that this is the beginning of a fresh healing touch for Kashmir," he added.

Prime Minister Modi earlier said only dialogue and development can ensure peace in Jammu and Kashmir.

"Every Indian loves Kashmir. The azaadi (freedom) that every Indian feels, Kashmir can feel too," he said while speaking at an event to commemorate the sacrifices of freedom fighters on the Quit India day at revolutionary Chandrashekhar Azad's village at Bhabra in Alirajpur district of Madhya Pradesh.

The Prime Minister said he is pained to see young men pelting stones on security forces in the state.

"The boys, who should be holding laptops, bats and balls in their hands and dreams in their hearts, are ones carrying stones," he said.

Prime Minister Modi said Kashmir wants peace and the government is committed for development of the region.

"Whatever Kashmiris want for betterment of their livelihood, the Centre will help," he said.