Dialogue process a right step: Mufti

aSrinagar: Admitting that there could be ups and downs in the peace process, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said initiation of the dialogue process is a step taken in consonance with the ground realities. The ultimate destination is amity and peace, Sayeed said while addressing a public meeting at Sumbal in North Kashmir on Saturday.

Sayeed said there is no other option to deal with issues other than through reconciliation and talks. He complimented Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for creating a congenial atmosphere for the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service. ''I have asked the Prime Minister to have the fortnightly bus service changed into a daily service,'' he said adding it is one of the major Confidence Building Measures (CBM) with Jammu and Kashmir in focus.

Making a reference to the changed atmosphere in the state, Sayeed said development activities have picked up in every area of Jammu and Kashmir. He said although the fear of the gun has not completely gone, the people are actively involved in matters of governance and development.

He said political rallies are held and public meetings addressed by leaders of different parties. The Hurriyat leadership has also taken the democratic path which is a very good sign, Sayeed added.