Delhi: Addressing the nation over radio in his 23rd 'Mann Ki Baat' programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, in a fresh bid to reach out to people of the Valley said that 'ekta' (unity) and 'mamata' (compassion) were the basic mantras for addressing Kashmir problem, even as he slammed those pushing 'innocent' children to violence.
"In my interaction with different political groups, one thing emerged. It was unity and compassion to be the core mantra of our policy in Kashmir. Those trying to incite trouble from behind children will have to answer for their deeds to these innocent children some day," he said.
Seeking to strike a chord with the people of Kashmir, he said, "It is the view of all of us, the view of 125 crore people from a pradhan of a village to the Prime Minister, that if any life is lost in Kashmir, whether of any youth or any securityman, that loss is ours, our own country," Modi said.
Speaking on the unrest in the valley PM Modi said, "From the interactions I had with all parties on Kashmir, one thing emerged from those, which can be put in simple words as 'Ekta' and 'Mamata'. These two things were the basic mantra."
He said all the political parties had spoken in one voice on Kashmir, sending out a "message to the world as well as separatist forces" besides conveying "our sentiments to the people of Kashmir", as per PTI.
The Prime Minister's remarks came a day after Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti met him and presented a "three-pronged action plan" that includes dialogue with all stakeholders.
"This country is very big, full of diversities. To keep it united, it is the responsibility of all of us, as individual citizens, as a society and as a government, to strengthen the unity as much as we can, highlight it as much as we can. Only then can the nation achieve its bright future. I have confidence in the power of 125 crore people of the country," the PM pointed out.
The killing of Hizbul Mujahideen 'commander' Burhan Wani sparked off violence in Kashmir that has left 68 persons dead and thousands others injured as the unrest entered its 51st day today.
At the same time, PM Modi also touched upon cleanliness, Ganga rejuvenation and environment conservation, among other issues.
Congratulating the athletes who performed well at the Rio Olympics, PM Modi stressed that sports should not be seen as a waste of time and that state governments must support and promote at least two sports of their choice.
"Although our medals tally is just two, but many Indian sportsmen have performed quite well ... but we have to do more. If we keep doing what we have been, then we would face disappointment again. I have announced a committee to look deeply into the matter. It would study the best practices (in sports) across the world and would prepare a roadmap on how to perform better at the 2020, 2024 and 2028 Olympics," he said, as per IANS.
Moreover, PM Modi paid tributes to hockey legend Dhyan Chand on the eve of his 111th birth anniversary, and to Mother Teresa, who is to be canonised on September 4.
Raising concern over environmental degradation, Modi urged people to avoid using idols made of Plaster of Paris (POP) during the Ganesh Chaturthi and Durga Puja festivals.
"Festival is the time of self-evaluation and they need to change with time. Environment is damaged due to immersion of POP idols. Let's go back to old traditions and adopt idols made of pond clay," he said.
(With Agency inputs)
