PDP for return of Kashmiris crossed over to POK for arms training

Srinagar, Apr 2 (UNI) The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), an alliance in the Congress-led government in Jammu and Kashmir, said today that allowing Kashmiri militants to return from Pakistan- occupied Kashmir (POK) will be a significant Kashmir-centric Confidence Building Measure (CBM).

It also said that the self-rule idea was the only viable solution to the Kashmir issue.

In his first public appearance in the valley after change of guard in November last year, Mr Sayeed said that as per the reports emanating from across the border, the youth who had gone there for armed training were eagerly waiting to return back and live peaceful lives as their hearts and minds had changed.

Addressing a public meeting at Degree college Baramulla today he said a passionate view should be taken about them and if they are ready to join mainstream they must be given a chance to join their families and work for the welfare of the State.

He appealed to Prime Minster to take an initiative in this regard as it would be a significant Kashmir-centric CBM.

Taking credit for opening of Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road after more than 57 years, the former Chief Minister said that instead of confining the movement on the road to the divided families, it should be opened for free movement of people with minimum procedural formalities.

He said during his recent meeting with the Prime Minister, he took up the issue with him and urged the him to not only allow free movement of the people on the road but open it for trade as well.

''I assure you that soon truckloads of your apple and other goods would be crossing over to Pakistan and Central Asia through this road,'' he said.

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