Dialogue with Pak needed, but Centre should decide when: Lok Jan Shakti Party

JAMMU: The Lok Jan Shakti Party (LJP) on Tuesday advocated for a meaningful dialogue with Pakistan to end the violence in border areas, but said it was the prerogative of the Union government to decide when it wants to resume the talks.

Sanjay Saraf, the national spokesperson of the LJP, a partner in the BJP-led ruling coalition at the Centre, supported initiation of dialogue with Pakistan to restore peace in Kashmir valley.

"Dialogue holds the key for resolution of all issues... When the solution lies in talks then why this bloodshed?" he said, but added "it is the choice of External Affairs Ministry."

He urged security forces and militants to hold a ceasefire "for at least six months" to allow the people in Kashmir to live in peace. "They too have the right to live," he told reporters here.

He said militants should understand that they can achieve nothing through violence. Government of India should think seriously to carry forward the peace process in the valley," he said, adding that the Centre should also start a dialogue with the people of Kashmir.At least you can start dialogue with your own people to restore peace in the valley," he said.

Saraf demanded permanent rehabilitation of the migrant Kashmiri Pandits, either in Jammu or in the valley.He claimed that the community is facing huge problems even in the camps set up by the government.