Doors are open for HC to join working group,RT on Kashmir, Azad

Srinagar, June 15 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today said the Hurriyat Conference (HC) was welcome to join the next round of round-table conference on Kashmir and the working groups being set up to find solution to the issues concerning the people of the state.

If the Hurriyat Conference wishes to send its representatives to the five working groups announced by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh at the end of the of the second round table conference on April 24-25 here, Mr Azad said they were welcome.

Underlining the importance of peace for creating conducive atmosphere for resolving all issues amicably Mr Azad said that the intention of his government was to achieve the goal of peace and prosperity in a congenial environment.

Interacting with mediapersons in the assembly secretariat lawns here after casting his vote to elect Rajya Sabha members, Mr Azad said that a network of development schemes with a purpose to provide basic amenities to the people has already been set into motion.

He said over 500 projects have been started under the newly introduced double shift system of working to ensure timely completion.

In reply to a question, Chief Minister said some elements who did not believe in development and progress, raised hollow slogans and tried to lead people astray.

''We are sincere in carrying forward the development process as well as addressing the issues through interaction and dialogue,'' Mr Azad said.

He said as part of consultations with various political parties in connection with the formation of working groups, he had a meeting with BJP leaders this morning.

UNI BAS LR KP1939