"It's extremely painful to see such barbaric acts of targeted violence being operationalised in the 21st century democratic India. Continuation of such atrocities against minorities, lack of accountability and stereotyping of Muslims are not only fuelling a sense of insecurity among the community but also breeding perilous alienation," PDP patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said at an election rally in north Kashmir's Kupwara district.
Sayeed said if elected to Parliament, PDP representatives would work with the community leaders across the country to address the issues of minority "insecurity" and their developmental rights.
The former Chief Minister said PDP, through its untiring efforts and 'Self-Rule' agenda, has been able to create a middle ground for all forces of peace, progress and reconciliation to operate and asked the people to strengthen such forces to deliver on peace and progress fronts.
Sayeed said that prior to conceiving and debating the issue of resolution of Kashmir and outlining its contours, it is imperative that an enabling environment is created for a sustainable solution.
"...The government of India must firmly make up its mind that the only way forward in Jammu and Kashmir is the non-military and democratic way," he said, reiterating his party's resolve to stand by the state's people and work for peace, progress and prosperity.