Resolve J

Srinagar, Aug 17 (UNI) Strongly condemning the alleged economic blockade, attack on Kashmiris in Jammu and killing of processionists in the valley by security forces, the National Conference (NC) today asked the Centre to resolve the present crisis before it is too late.

Addressing a press conference here this afternoon, NC president Omar Abdullah said the economic blockade was very unfortunate. He also recalled how former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee had once said that Kashmir was a humanitarian problem.

But economic blockade and killing of the peaceful processionists was most inhuman, the NC president said.

Condemning the CRPF and police action, Mr Omar said the forces ransacked houses, damaged property and killed innocent people.

''The centre should immediately initiate talks with the action committee, Jammu and Srinagar to find a solution to the present crisis,'' he added.

The resolution, however, should be acceptable to both the parties, he said, adding that if the present crisis was not resolved immediately, there was a threat of division of the state.

''It will get divided if concrete measures were not taken to address the crisis soon,'' Mr Omar said.

He appealed to the Centre to hold talks with both the sides in the state so that an amicable solution is found.

Blaming bureaucracy for delaying a solution to the crisis, he said the elected government would have resolved it.

Mr Omar said his party supports the opening of the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road and the government should compensate, at market rate, the fruit growers who suffered losses due to the blockade.

Blaming the Centre for the crisis, the NC president said Delhi had forgotten the Kashmir issue which needs political settlement acceptable to all.

''New Delhi remember Kashmir only when there is any trouble,'' he said, adding that the Centre forget the promises made with us during the meetings.

About the Hurriyat Conference (HC) threat of social boycott of Kashmiri MPs and others who did not resign, Mr Omar said he respect chairman of the breakaway HC Syed Ali Shah Geelani.

''Let Mr Geelani explain to me how Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah was leading the "Tehreeh" in Kashmir,'' he said adding afterwards he would consider it.

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