The Lok Sabha has taken up discussion on a statement by the Home Minister on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Initiating the discussion, Mr. Gurudas Dasgupta of the CPI appealed to the youth of the state to join the national mainstream and find a place in the political spectrum. He expressed the hope that a solution will be found to the difficulties faced by them. Mr. Dasgupta also made a fervent appeal for restoring normalcy and reconciliation in the state. Expressing his sorrow over the killing of innocent people as well as the security personnel, the CPI leader said that it is painful that there is a sense of alienation among a large number of people in Kashmir. Dr Murli Manohar Joshi of the BJP alleged that the UPA government is following a lopsided policy in Kashmir. He said there should be no attempt to demoralize the security forces. He criticized the Pakistan policy pursued by the government saying that they deviated from the policy of the then NDA government that it should wipe out terrorism emanating from its soil and then only the dialogue process can be started. He said BJP is not against the devolution of powers but any kind of autonomy to a particular region will be against the national interest. He also alleged that the UPA government has lost the faith of people of Kashmir. The discussion is continuing. Mrs. Girija Vyas of the Congress said that the civil society should come forward to ensure that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir do not indulge in violence but join the mainstream for the development of the State. She also stressed the need for dialogue to resolve the problems in the state. The discussion is continuing.