Srinagar, Sep 14(KNS): National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah expressed concern over the recent wave of encounters and killings in Jammu and Kashmir, despite the government's claims of normalcy.

During a visit to the residence of Former DIG Ghulam Hassan Bhat, whose son DySP Himayun Bhat lost his life in an encounter in Anantnag, Dr. Abdullah highlighted the tragic nature of the situation and the urgent need for a lasting solution to bring peace to the region.

"If the government is beating the drums of normalcy in J&K, why are encounters and killings still occurring? This is a big tragedy for us and it seems unending," stated Dr. Farooq Abdullah. He emphasized that the only path to ensure real peace on the ground is through dialogue between India and Pakistan. War, he firmly asserted, is not an option.

Dr. Abdullah stressed the long-standing dispute between India and Pakistan, which has persisted since Independence, necessitates a resolution. "India and Pakistan should talk to each other; this is a dispute that must be addressed," he affirmed.(KNS).