Politicians ''responsible'' for Amarnath controversy: Ravi Shankar

Jammu, Aug 12 (UNI) Lashing out at the political parties of Jammu and Kashmir, spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar of Art of Living Foundation today blamed the politicians and the vested interests ''responsible'' for Amarnath land controversy.

''Amarnath row is a brainchild of politicians and those with personal interests to generate vote bank,'' Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said at a press conference here.

''The masses were provoked and used for the personal benefits but the agitations are now out of control as people have been involved at large for the sake of sentiments,'' the guru said asserting, ''the protestors should not follow the path of violence during agitation but it should be held peacefully.'' The spiritual guru said every problem had a solution adding ''dialogue is the best medium to tackle all the troubles.'' ''Centre should invite leaders from both the regions for dialogue and find an appropriate way out to solve the issue as early as possible in the welfare of the masses,'' Sri Sri added.

The land should be restored to the Shrine Board for the period of three months (yatra period) so that all the facilities can be made available to the pilgrims, he suggested.

Sri Sri is on two-day visit of state with regard to the ongoing situation and will be visiting Kashmir to meet the separatist leaders for dialogue.

UNI VBH SP BST2119