Washington, Apr 1: Kashmiri American Council, Executive Director, Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, today said its Board of Directors had again reiterated that there must be an early, just and durable resolution to the J&K dispute in accordance with the United Nations Security Council resolutions and according to the aspirations of the people of State.
 In a statement, Dr Fai said, the Board in its 3-days meeting agreed to 18-points “policy statement” to be pursued during the year 2011.
 “The Board clarified that Kashmiris should be given the right of self-determination to decide their future by a free vote. Until now this assurance has not been honored; noted with satisfaction the reiteration of President Obama that Kashmir is a longstanding dispute between India and Pakistan and its resolution is in the interests of the region; remains convinced that the people of J&K constitute the principle stakeholders and should be an integral component of the ongoing peace process. Therefore, the talks must be tripartite between all parties concerned: i.e., the Governments of India & Pakistan and the legitimate leadership of the people of J&K; reiterated that durable peace and development of harmonious relations and friendly cooperation between India and Pakistan would serve the vital interests of the peoples of both nations, enabling them to devote their energies for a better future; calls for an intensive and comprehensive inter and intra Kashmiri dialogue outside sub-continent between different opinions and regions of the State; resolves that all internally and externally displaced people of J&K since 1947 including Kashmiri Pandits, should be facilitated to return to their homes in safety and dignity.”
 The Board, he said recommended steps need to be taken by the Government of India to make the peace process meaningful. The steps include: Immediate and complete cessation of military and paramilitary actions; gradual withdrawal of the military presence from the towns and villages; dismantling of bunkers, watch towers and barricades; release of political prisoners languishing in jails, interrogation centers; annulling of various special repressive laws, like Armed Forces Special Powers Act, DAA and Public Safety Act; and restoring the right of peaceful association, assembly and demonstrations.
 Dr Fai said the Board proposed an appointment of a special envoy on Kashmir by the United Nations or the European Parliament or President Obama which, according to it would hasten the process of peace and stability in South Asia.

Lastupdate on : Fri, 1 Apr 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 1 Apr 2011 18:30:00 GMT
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