Farooq Abdullah wants restoration of autonomy in Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Farooq Abdullah has said that the restoration of autonomy in Jammu and Kashmir is very important to bring back peace and normalcy to the region.

"Jammu and Kashmir is primarily a political problem and needs to be resolved through peaceful political means. The only way to bring normalcy and permanent peace to the state and the subcontinent is to restore autonomy in its pristine form, as guaranteed in the Indian Constitution," said Abdullah, while addressing a press conference here on Thursday.

He also said that if there existed solution better than autonomy, which is acceptable to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, his party, the National Conference would have no problem in accepting it.

He also said that there have been huge losses of life and property during the recent unrest, and people of the State should come forward for the restoration of peace.

"The (National Conference) working committee noted with dismay that people have suffered huge economic losses during the recent disturbances, particularly small traders, vendors, labourers, and other weaker sections of society, and also that education system and academic schedule have been badly disturbed, which could endanger the future of young generation," he added.

Kashmir has been witnessing a series of demonstrations against the killing of some youths in police firing during the last two months.