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New Delhi:
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday said he wants to resolve
differences with Pakistan through dialogue but much progress cannot
be made unless terrorism emanating from its territory ends.
"Whatever differences we have with our neighbouring countries, we
want to resolve them through discussions. As far as Pakistan is
concerned, we expect from them that they would not let their
territory be used for acts of terrorism against India," Singh said
addressing the nation from the ramparts of the majestic Red Fort on
the 64th Independence Day.
He said India has been emphasising this in all its discussions with
Pakistan.
"If this is not done, we cannot progress far in our dialogue with
Pakistan," Singh said.
He underlined that India wants prosperity, peace and harmony in its
neighbouring countries.
Recalling his recent talks with political parties in Jammu and
Kashmir, the Prime Minister said it would be his endeavour to take
this process forward and the government was ready to talk to every
person or group which abjures violence.
Kashmir,
integral part of India
Asserting that Kashmir was an integral part of India, Singh said,
"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."
He expressed "deep regret" over the recent cycle of violence in
Jammu and Kashmir in which young men lost their lives.
"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," Singh said.
Internal Threat
In an apparent reference to the economic blockade of Manipur, the
Prime Minister said such "unpleasant incidents" can only harm the
country.
He underlined that discussion and dialogue were the only options to
resolve complex issues and offered to take forward every process of
talks which could lead to progress in resolution of problems.
"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," Singh said.
Appeal to
Naxals
In a fresh bid to bring the Maoists to the table, Dr. Singh appealed
to them to abjure violence, come forward for talks and to join hands
with the government for accelerated social and economic growth in
the backward areas.
“We will deal firmly with those who resort to violence. I once again
appeal to Naxalites to abjure violence, come to talks with
government and join hands with us to accelerate social and economic
development,” he said.
Committing to his government’s resolve to deal firmly on internal
security, Dr. Singh said the Centre would provide “all possible
help” to States to “maintain the rule of law” in areas affected by
Naxalism.
The Prime Minister also promised to fully implement the consensus
that emerged in the meeting he held with Chief Ministers of Naxal-affected
States and stressed the importance of both the Centre and State
governments working together to meet the challenge posed by the
ultras.
“It is imperative that the Centre and the States work together to
meet the challenge of Naxalism. It would be very difficult for any
State to tackle this problem without cooperation from the Centre and
coordination between States.
We all need to rise above our personal and political interests to
meet this challenge,” he said.
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