Maintaining that the problems in Jammu and Kashmir are complex, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Friday that the Centre appointed interlocutors to facilitate the dialogue process. Despite all the problems, India would resume the dialogue with Pakistan with an open mind.
Addressing the third convocation of S.K. University of Agricultural Science and Technology here, he said: “We recognise that there are genuine political, social and emotional grievances of the people. We are trying honestly to address these issues. The visit of the all-party delegation to the State last year was intended to bring about a national consensus on some of the important problems of the State.
“The problems of Jammu and Kashmir are complex, and each of the regions…whether it is Kashmir, Jammu or Ladakh have their own problems, which require attention.”
Seeking support for the dialogue process, he said: “A group of interlocutors was appointed to facilitate a continuous dialogue with all sections of the people of the State. There is no way forward but through sustained dialogue and the resolution of all problems under a constitutional framework that, I believe, has the flexibility to accommodate honourable and durable solutions for all.”
The sub-continent would not realise its full potential for development unless the relations between India and Pakistan turned normal, Dr. Singh said.
“Despite all the problems, we have decided to resume the dialogue process. We will enter these talks with an open mind. We wish to resolve all outstanding issues between the two countries through friendly dialogue and constructive and purposeful negotiations. And this includes the issue of Jammu and Kashmir.
“We will always keep the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in mind. We are willing to discuss all issues that have a bearing on the peace, dignity and well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Having said that, we cannot forget what happened in Mumbai. I urge the government of Pakistan to leave no stone unturned in bringing the culprits to book. The activities of extremist groups in Pakistan are a source of concern.
“But I believe that there is a growing conviction in Pakistan among the thinking segments of the population that something serious needs to be done to curb the influence of these groups on Pakistani society and polity. I urge Pakistan to take strong and resolute action against these groups that is in the interest of Pakistan, the region and the world at large.
“Peace, development and prosperity in South Asia depend on peace, development and prosperity in each country of the region,” he said.
In a few months, “we will inaugurate the South Asian University in New Delhi. The South Asian University is intended to tap the vast reservoir of intellectual talent in South Asia. It seeks to strengthen our South Asian identity by building fraternal bonds through academic exchanges and by learning about each other.”
He said leading universities like Sher-e-Kashmir University should think about expanding their academic horizons by promoting regional studies and exchanges with other countries in the region.
