Lahore, Sept 24: Former Pakistani premier Nawaz Sharif Friday asked India to hold a “referendum” in Jammu and Kashmir, saying it is the only solution to the vexed bilateral issue.
“The Kashmiri people want independence from them (India). They want to make a decision

through a referendum. India should take this opportunity and hold a referendum as it is the only solution to the problem,” the chief of the main opposition PML-N told a news conference.
Sharif said the Kashmiris should be given the right to lead their lives according to their wishes. “India must read the writing on the wall,” he added. He called on India to hold talks with “genuine” Kashmiri leaders to redress their grievances and to resolve the Kashmir issue “with their consent”.
“There will be no peace or stability in the region without the resolution of the Kashmir dispute, which also has been a reason for tension between Pakistan and India for decades,” Sharif said.
“Indian leaders should realise that a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir problem will enable both countries to devote their energies and resources to economic growth, development and elimination of poverty,” he said.
“I have always advocated cordial relations between India and Pakistan. The solution of the Kashmir dispute will help bring peace to the region,” he added.

Lastupdate on : Fri, 24 Sep 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 24 Sep 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 25 Sep 2010 00:00:00 IST