The Hindu : Front Page : Let's build a prosperous J&K: Manmohan

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, May 25, 2006

Front Page

Front Page

Let's build a prosperous J&K: Manmohan

Vinay Kumar

Government reviewing cases of all detainees, including those who crossed over after violating laws

CONTINUING DIALOGUE: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh flanked by Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil (left) and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad at the second round table on Kashmir in Srinagar on Wednesday. At (below), National Conference president Omar Abdullah, People's Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti and State Congress chief Peerzada Syed, three of the participants. _ PHOTO: NISSAR AHMAD

SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday opened the second round table on Jammu and Kashmir here, expressing his Government's resolve to protect "every resident of Jammu and Kashmir from terrorist acts and atrocities.''

Dr. Singh acknowledged that there were two dimensions to the State's problems and dwelt upon the Pakistan factor behind them. "One is the relationship between Delhi and Srinagar, and the other between Delhi and Islamabad. These two dimensions are, of course, different but each affects the other. In your exchange of ideas here, I want you to keep this in mind.''

In the changing environment, the Government was reviewing the cases of all detainees. The review included the cases of "those who crossed over after violating our laws and who are now anxious to come home,'' he said.

The Government was resolved to build a prosperous future for the State but there were some who had the opposite wish.

"Their inhuman acts have cost many lives, destroyed many families. Who these elements are, we all know well. Such activities will only make our resolve even stronger to ensure that every resident of the State is protected from such terrorist acts and atrocities. We are prepared to take every step towards achieving this objective.''

Recalling his opening remarks at the first round table conference in New Delhi in February, he said every resident of Jammu and Kashmir should lead a life of dignity free from oppression, poverty and fear.

The Prime Minister, speaking in chaste Urdu, hoped that the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, which had met him, would also "join the series of round table conferences so that they can share their views with all of us. In this connection, I have held discussions with leaders of other organisations also, who had earlier kept away from dialogue.''

He recalled that his May 3 interaction with the moderate faction of the Hurriyat was positive.

"They are prepared to take this forward and are ready to prepare specific proposals. I hope that at the appropriate time they will also join the series of round table conferences.''

The focus of the round table should be on four key areas. First, what are those political institutions and arrangements that can strengthen the relationship between the State and the Centre? He stressed on security of the people, human rights and good governance. Second, how can the different regions in the State, while recognising their distinct identities, be brought close to each other? Third, what is the economic future of the State? Fourth, what are the steps necessary to restore public self-confidence; how can regional identities be strengthened, so that they can blossom. And finally, what are the institutional arrangements that can bring people from both sides of the LoC closer?

Dr. Singh announced that the Jammu Medical College would be accorded AIIMS status.

Though the Government invited 48 groups and political parties, only 30 groups are said to be participating.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail