Kashmir issue needs a political solution: Tarigami

Jammu and Kashmir unit of CPI(M) today advocated for restoration of autonomy to the state, saying the Kashmir issue is essentially a political problem and needs a political solution.
"Kashmir (conflict) is essentially a political problem which needs a political solution...Autonomy is a way forward," CPI(M) state secretary M Y Tarigami said in a statement here.
He said "nobody should remain in any illusion" that this problem can be solved by the use of "force or brow beating".
"Let's hope the important stake holders understand the dynamics and consequences of this unfortunate problem and explore all peaceful options to settle it," he said, adding that restoration of autonomy in its original form is essential and cannot be compensated with any other alternatives.

Hitting out at BJP for raising the issue of abrogation of Article 370, Tarigami said, "A question can be asked to those who cry hoarse about Article 370. Have you ever made a serious attempt to mobilise the opinion in the country for restoration of the state's autonomy to its original form which has been eroded during the years beyond recognition and remains in form and not substance?"
He also said, "While fascist forces have been always trying to scuttle the constitutional guarantees to Jammu and Kashmir, the successive secular regimes in the country have also been responsible for the denial of autonomy and spoiling the spirit of Article 370."

Tarigami said the lack of conviction by ruling National Conference to press for the state's autonomy is reflected by its stoic silence even after a regime in Delhi contemptuously turned down the state legislature's resolution on the issue.