Sonia Gandhi says India will not bow before terrorism

Uri (Srinagar), Dec 3 : Congress president Sonia Gandhi today said that India will never bow before terrorism and will give a befitting reply.

Addressing a public meeting in border town of Uri, Gandhi said the country has taken several steps to have a friendly relationship with our neighbours.

"Terror has no religion and there will be no compromise with those who are against humanity and human values," she added.

On the Kashmir issue, Gandhi said "we are ready for talks at any level within the framework of Constitution for the welfare of the people".

"We are a peace loving country. Peace is imperative for the development of the country," she added.

The fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh phase of polls in the state will be held on December 7, 13, 17 and 24.

Electioneering has already intensified for the 18 Assembly seats in Baramulla, Budgam, Reasi and Udhampur districts where polling will be held on December 7. Two phases of the seven-phased elections have been successfully concluded with the active participation of the people.

Despite the separatists'' call for the election boycott, the first phase of the elections recorded 64 per cent participation. At least 65 per cent voting was recorded during the second phase of polling.

In the first four phases, the number of candidates showed a marked increase this time as compared to last time. In the Kashmir division the number has gone up to more than double.

The results will be declared on December 28.

ANI