PM's message to Kashmiris reflects democratic values: JK Dy CM

Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh today said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement on Jammu and Kashmir reflects the resolve of the nation and democratic values, as he urged separatists and militants to use the opportunity to return to the mainstream.
"Unnecessary criticism will not achieve anything. The prime minister has given a message (to militants and separatists) to leave bullets and abuse and take the right way wherein their grievances can be discussed and addressed in a democratic way," the Deputy CM and BJP leader said at a function here.
In his Independence Day address, Modi said "bullets or abuses will not help resolve their problems and a change can take place by embracing all Kashmiris".

Singh said the prime minister's message demonstrates the resolve of the nation.
"The idea is to involve everyone and has come in a democratic way...If you (separatists) continue with undemocratic ways, nothing will be achieved," Singh said.
He said India believes in democracy and talks but "if (militants) speak the language of guns, the response will be given in the same fashion".

"There will be no compromise on terrorism and separatism. If anyone is willing to come forward and talk within the framework of Constitution, we are ready to listen," he said.
On the comments of opposition National Conference leader Omar Abdullah about Modi's statement, Singh said it depends on his understanding.

"Omar is a former chief minister and if he does not understand, he is in some way supporting the separatists," he said.
"Actually he said the Kashmir issue will not be resolved by abuse & bullets. I guess that covers both sides - terrorists & security forces," Abdullah wrote on Twitter, reacting to the prime minister's speech.
Singh also took a dig at the opposition over "misleading" statements on Article 35A and said "We are ready for discussion and debate over the issue".
He said his party's stand on Article 35A and Article 370 of the Constitution is known but "We have formed the (J&K) government with PDP and reached an understanding in the shape of Agenda of Alliance which demands maintenance of status quo on certain contentious issues".

Asked about the BJP's stand on the issue if it gets a majority in the next Assembly polls, he said "the party's stand will be the same. We will take a call on the issue at that time".