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We must reach out to the alienated, says J&K governor

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Girish Chandra Saxena on Thursday urged the Centre to initiate a "serious, result-oriented and unconditional dialogue" with the elected representatives of the state and others.

In his address to the assembly, Saxena, however, said, "There will be no compromise on security concerns."

The address was an enunciation of the policy initiatives of the new government headed by Mufti Mohammed Sayeed.

"A historic opportunity is knocking at our doors and we don't want to miss it, as it is destined to usher peaceful and prosperous future for the coming generations," he said, adding, "the environment of despair will be turned into a prospect of hope, and to achieve this goal it is essential to make a beginning by giving a healing touch to the situation and by reaching out to those who feel alienated."

He said, "Due to unfortunate happenings of the last 13 years people are living in a constant state of insecurity. All sections of the society, particularly the youth and children, have grown in the shadow of fear and their psyches scarred and emotionally damaged.

"Our people feel dehumanised and brutalised. This tragic phenomenon creates an environment conducive to the growth of disillusionment, anger, frustration and violence. This environment has to be changed."

Saxena said, "The government will review the cases of all such detinues... not charged with serious offences or held on charges the possible sentence for which is less than the period they have already spent in jail. They shall be released.

"All such laws will be reviewed that deprive the people of their basic right to life and liberty, guaranteed under the Constitution.

"Whenever necessary to retain some special powers, the government will ensure that such laws are used sparingly and those entrusted with implementing them are held accountable for any misuse. This will be done by instituting careful and transparent pre-screening and monitoring procedures."

There was no need to resort to the Prevention of Terrorism Act, the governor said, adding, "the existing laws are adequate to deal with militancy."

The government will "provide healing touch to the situation of despair", he said, adding, "but at the same time it is alive to the legitimate security concerns of the state."

"The government will stand firm and steadfast in discharging its obligations under the Constitution. All possible measures will be taken to protect the people from violence and militancy, whether originating from within or outside the state."

The Election in Jammu and Kashmir: The Full Coverage

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