Nobra (Leh), Oct 23: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday reiterated the necessity of addressing political issues of Jammu and Kashmir in a “peaceful atmosphere” to lead the state into an era of permanent peace and development.
 He said that Indo-Pak relations have a direct bearing on Jammu and Kashmir. “The thaw in the relations between the two countries affects peace and development in the State and any tension between the two creates difficulties here,” he said, addressing a public gathering at Diskit, one of the remotest corners in Leh district.
 Omar said while campaigning in 2008 Assembly elections he had sought votes from the people to address their development issues. “However, my government also worked for creating an atmosphere in which political issues of Jammu and Kashmir could be addressed both by the internal as well as external dialogue processes,” he said. “We are continuously working in this direction and want Indo-Pak relations to improve so that all the outstanding issues between the two neighbours are resolved peacefully across the table.”
 Omar said gun has never been instrumental to resolve issues. “Gun has always created problems and led to bloodshed,” he said, underlining the importance of peace to work out solutions to issues.
 On delivery of good-governance and reduction of chances of corruption in the administration, the Chief Minister referred to the implementation of Public Service Guarantee Act and said that his government has empowered public legally to receive public services within a fixed time frame.
 The Chief Minister said that various schemes have been launched in Nobra area to upgrade basic amenities.
 He said he is persuading Centre for construction of Khardungla Tunnel and is hopeful that he will succeed in his efforts and the Central Government would accede to this as was done in case of Zojila and Z-Morh tunnels.
 Omar laid foundation of Model Degree College at Nobra and also of mini hydel projects at Turtuk, Chulungkha, Bogdang, Henache and Chamshen.

Lastupdate on : Tue, 23 Oct 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Tue, 23 Oct 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 IST