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Jammu and Kashmir separatist leader Shabir Shah on Sunday said he is hopeful the new government will help facilitate the dialogue process between Kashmiri groups and the Centre for the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue.
Unlike the Bharatiya Janata Party and the National Conference, which created 'hurdles' in the dialogue process, the new dispensation is expected to move forward in resolving the Kashmir issue as promised by the Congress and the People's Democratic Party in their election manifestos, Shah said.
The Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party chief said the new government must also address the issue of alienation of people from the mainstream.
It should take steps for withdrawal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, release of political and other detainees and disbanding of the Special Operation Group, he said.
He added a conducive atmosphere should be created for the return of the displaced Kashmiri Hindus.
Shah said various political parties wanted to see the exit of the SOG for 'excesses' committed by it.
The central government, Shah said, should continue the dialogue process with Kashmiri groups, including separatists, and initiate moves for talks with Pakistan for peaceful resolution of the problem.
Talks between India and Pakistan were necessary to de-escalate the tension, he said.
On the Kashmir Committee headed by Ram Jethmalani, Shah said, "They are friends of the Kashmiris and can become a bridge between New Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir."
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