Peace in J&K top priority: PM

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today asserted that attempts by "some elements" within Jammu and Kashmir to disrupt peace would be firmly thwarted and proposed focus on a five-point programme to build a new Kashmir.

Addressing the second round table conference, Singh said the welfare of J&K was the "top most priority" of the Congress-led UPA government.

He said it was the government's endeavour to put behind the tragic memories of the past while working to build a prosperous future for the state.

Singh, who is having the second such meeting in three months, said: "There are some elements within the state who do not wish this dream to become a reality. Their inhumane acts have cost many lives, destroyed many families. Who these elements are, we all know," he said without elaborating.

Condemning acts of violence, Singh said the government will ensure that every resident of the state is protected from terrorist acts and atrocities. "We are prepared to take every step towards achieving this objective. We condemn such activities and will ensure that such plans fail," he said.

Maintaining that the government recognised that all forms of dialogue should continue to resolve political issues, he hoped that the Hurriyat Conference, which has boycotted even the second round table, would at the "appropriate time" join the meet and share their views.