The ruling National Conference on Thursday reiterated that the restoration of autonomy was the only way to bring normality and permanent peace to Jammu and Kashmir.
The party also demanded the release of all political detenus and expressed grief over the loss of many lives in the recent past.
At a marathon meeting of its executive chaired by party president Farooq Abdullah, the National Conference passed eight resolutions concerning the prevailing situation in the State. The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, his Cabinet colleagues, party general secretary Sheikh Nazir Ahmad, and other senior leaders.
One resolution stressed that the Kashmir issue was primarily a “political” problem and emphasised that it needed to be resolved through peaceful political means.
“The only way to bring normalcy and permanent peace to the State and the sub continent is to restore autonomy in its pristine form as guaranteed in the Indian Constitution. However, the National Conference reiterates its stand that if a better solution than autonomy is forthcoming, the party will welcome it,” the resolution said.
Talking to journalists after the meeting, Dr. Abdullah said the Working Committee reposed trust in the leadership of Mr. Omar Abdullah as Chief Minister, saying that the party firmly stood behind him.
“Free political detenus”
Another resolution urged the government to consider release of all political detenus in order to build an atmosphere conducive for peace and reconciliation.
The Working Committee condoled the loss of lives in the recent disturbances and conveyed its sympathies to the bereaved families. It also urged the government to provide adequate relief to the families.
Dr. Abdullah said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was serious about holding talks with the separatists.
