72nd Independence Day: Kashmir problem can be solved by embracing people, says Modi

Every problem in Jammu and Kashmir can be solved by embracing its people, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, using his Independence Day speech to reach out to the militancy-affected region. “Whether it is of Ladakh or Jammu or Kashmir Valley, there should be balanced and equal development. All expectations of the people there should be fulfilled, infrastructure should be strengthened and we should walk with everyone. We don't want to move in the path of guns and abuse,” he said. “Atalji called for 'insaniyat' (humanity), 'Kashmiriat' (Kashmiri culture) and 'jamhooriyat' (democracy). I also said that the issues in Kashmir can be resolved by embracing the people of Kashmir,” he said at the Red Fort. Modi said Jammu and Kashmir, which is under Governor's Rule, will hold panchayat and local body elections. He did not say when.