Omar Abdullah says return of normalcy prerequisite for political initiative

NEW DELHI - Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said that the state has to show a semblance of normalcy to be restored before political initiatives can begin.

Addressing a press conference after meeting Home Minister P. Chidambaram: Abdullah said: “We need to break the cycle of violence. For any initiative to work, there has to be peace first. The curfew must be adhered to in all circumstances.”

“The problem is inherently political. Political initiative has to include amending armed forces act,” he added

He further said that Jammu and Kashmir needed a political solution, rather than an economic package.

Referring to the protests that have led to clashes with security forces, he said that efforts were made not to resort to force. Our government doesn’t want to resort to the use of force but when people come out to take law in their own hands, there are consequences.”

He appealed to people to stop “lawlessness” and to allow the government to take steps to restore normalcy.

Curfew where announced will have to be implemented strictly. There will be no other way around this,” he added.

Earlier in the day, Abdullah met Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh and discussed issues including the need for additional forces and initiation of ‘internal and external’ dialogue with people concerned.

At least eight people were killed on Sunday in separate incidents of violence. (ANI)