WOMEN, CHILDREN SUFFERED MOST DURING MILITANCYIN KASHMIR: OMAR ABDULLAH

Srinagar May 24  (Only Kashmir): – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Thursday said that the children and women in the state had to bear most and severe brunt of the militancy even as the society in general suffered a lot.

Speaking to Chairpersons of Social Welfare Boards of various States who are presently here, Omar Abdullah said that the worst sufferers were – children and women. “They were most innocent victims of the militancy who had no say and nothing to do with anything in this regard”, he added.

“The psychological and physical trauma they had gone through in the period of disturbance has created deep scar of depression in them”, he said adding that the State Government was gradually pulling them out of this pain and provide palatable and helpful atmosphere to heal their wounds and help them live a normal life.

“Our endeavour has been to keep their optimism live and work for their bright future”, he said adding that process of bringing them out of darkness is on. He said that the visit of Chairpersons of Social Welfare Boards from various States and the Centre and their interaction with women folk of Jammu and Kashmir at various levels would help to restore confidence in the women of the State who have suffered during the militancy and also in those who are enthusiastic to serve the society in various capacities.

The Chief Minister said that the perception generated during the period of militancy regarding visiting Jammu and Kashmir for security reasons has to be removed and the mindset changed from negative perspective to the positive one. “I would like you to carry the message from this place to whole of the country reflecting the positive change and peaceful atmosphere gaining ground in the State especially in the valley. You represent all corners of India and I would like you to tell your countrymen what you have felt and experienced here during your stay”, he told the Chairpersons.

Omar said that the people of the State are known for their hospitality and they are resilient to rebuild peaceful and progressive Jammu and Kashmir is. He said peace is returning and we are receiving quiet large number of guests from all across the country since last year. “We would like more and more visitors travelling here and relishing the natural beauty and hospitality of the people”, he maintained.

The Chairperson of National Social Welfare Board, Ms Preama Carippa and State Chairperson, Ms Khem Lata Wukhloo, introduced the chairpersons from various states to the Chief Minister.(OK)