APHC agrees to consider Government's peace talk offer

Srinagar, Apr 27 : All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) said on Sunday that it would consider resuming peace talks with the Government, following Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's proposal during his two-day visit to the State.

Following the Prime Minister's proposal to resume talks, senior Hurriyat leader Maulvi Abbas Hussein Ansari said that if the government is serious about resolving the issue, they would cooperate.

Addressing a public rally Dr. Singh had earlier said that the ruling Congress led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) is willing to hold peace talks with any one including Hurriyat to solve the Kashmir issue.

Reacting to Dr. Singh's statements, Ansari said that India should first initiate the peace process by releasing the political prisoners languishing in different jails in Kashmir as well as in other parts of the country.

"I speak out of experience and I can tell you that violence is no solution and it is only through talks that any issue can be resolved. And if the government is eager to hold talks, I believe, we should cooperate," said Ansari.

"Otherwise, the Indian government will have an opportunity to say that, see we wanted to talk but they did not come forward. But then, they have to release the prisoners in the jails and also the talks should revolve around Kashmir only. And of course, the solution should be mutually acceptable," he added.

Earlier, chairman of the Hurriyat conference, Mirwaiz Omer Farooq had said in a public rally that the Prime Minister's offer is a ray of hope for them and they are willing to 'take ten steps if the Indian government takes even one step in this direction."

Not only Hurriyat, but the residents of the valley also feel that if these peace talks take place and are fruitful, it would be beneficial for the socio-economy of the region.

"If the problem is solved, then it would prove to be an opportunity for the people of Kashmir. There would be more growth opportunities, industries would be set up and it would make this valley a better place," said Riyaz, a resident.

ANI