Peace to be maintained at all costs in J-K: Shivraj Patil

Srinagar, August 10 : Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil on Sunday said that peace would be maintained at any cost in Jammu and Kashmir.

He said this while addressing a press conference following the second round of all party meet in Srinagar on Sunday, the Home Minister said regional and communal divide will not be allowed in the State and Amarnath yatra will continue as in the past.

Patil said efforts would be made to find and amicable solution to the Amarnath land issue acceptable to both Kashmir and Jammu.

Expressing his deep sorrow over the killing of some protesters in Srinagar and Jammu during disturbances, the Home Minister said both the state and central Governments would give compensation to their families. Those, who have suffered losses, will also be compensated.

Referring to the plight of the fruit growers Patil said the Government is seized of the problem and assured the growers that they will be provided safe transport of their produce to various markets in the country. The Government is prepared to compensate their losses.

Replying to a question on Governments response to the Monday's proposed Muzafarabad March by fruit growers supported by Hurriyat conference, the Home Minister said it will not help anybody and they should not go ahead.

Patil stressed for maintaining the communal harmony and sought the help of civil society and media in achieving this. He urged media to ensure that their writings do not harm anyone while reporting the facts.

ANI