Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed on Wednesday sought to take forward his "healing touch" policy.

After inaugurating a bridge on the Jhelum river in Srinagar, he said, "Militants should shun violence and drop the gun, as the government is pursuing the policy of unconditional dialogue."

He said the Congress-People's Democratic Party coalition government was keen on seeking cooperation from everyone for restoring peace in the state.

He said he had told Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee that he alone could not tackle terrorism, "a problem that has multi-dimensional complexity".

"I told the prime minister that Mufti Sayeed needs the support of the entire nation. I have demanded an employment package for youth, especially those who do not pick up the gun," the Mufti said.

The chief minister said, "Trail of miseries and agony, which people of Kashmir have gone through during past 13 years, must end now.

"The agony must be replaced with the fragrance of peace and tranquility. We want to make Kashmir a symbol of peace, brotherhood, and tranquility."

He spoke about the measures being taken by the government for providing relief to affected people under the common minimum programme.

Earlier, while addressing a gathering at Pampore, the chief minister said that the assassins of slain PDP legislator Abdul Aziz Mir would be identified and punished.