Govt. ready for talks in J-K: Manmohan Singh

New Delhi, Aug 15 (ANI): Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Sunday said Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India, and the Central Government is ready to move forward in any talks within this framework, which would increase the partnership of the common man in governance.

"In Jammu and Kashmir, we are ready to talk to every person or group, which abjures violence. Kashmir is an integral part of India. Within this framework, we are ready to move forward in any talks, which would increase the partnership of the common man in governance and also enhance their welfare," said Dr Singh addressing the nation from the ramparts of the majestic Red Fort on the 64th Independence Day.

"India's democracy has the generosity and flexibility to be able to address the concerns of any area or group in the country. I recently participated in a meeting with political parties from Jammu and Kashmir. We will endeavour to take this process forward," he added.

Expressing deep regret over the recent cycle of violence in the Kashmir valley, Dr Singh appealed the people to adopt democratic means for the country's welfare.

"I would like to convey to our countrymen, especially our citizens in Jammu and Kashmir and in the North East, that they should adopt democratic means to join hands with us for their and the country's welfare," said Dr Singh.

"The years of violence should now end. Such violence would not benefit anyone. I believe that India's democracy has the generosity and flexibility to be able to address the concerns of any area or group in the country," he added. (ANI)