‘Green shoots of peace’ visible in Kashmir Valley

The situation in Kashmir Valley has improved significantly over the past year and some green shoots of peace are visible, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today as he expressed willingness to meet every stakeholder to resolve long-standing issues.

Singh, who is on a four-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, told reporters that the tree of peace in Kashmir has not dried up and that a permanent solution to Kashmir issue is based on five ‘C’s — compassion, communication, coexistence,confidence building and consistency.

“After meeting the delegations and holding meetings here, I understand that the situation in Kashmir has greatly improved.I don’t want to claim that everything is completely fine but things are improving, this I can say with firm belief,” Singh said.

He said during his visit he has interacted with police and CRPF personnel and he will also meet the army personnel.

“I am willing to meet anyone who wants to help us in resolving problems of Kashmir.There is no question of a formal or informal invitation. Those who want to talk should come forward. I always come here with an open mind,” Singh said when asked if the government was ready to hold talks with separatists.

“If need be, I will visit Kashmir 50 times in a year.We will continue our efforts to bring peace here and this is our firm conviction,” Rajnath said.