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"In principle, we stand for the democratic process and democracy. But in case of the Kashmir conflict, this democratic process cannot be taken as a means to form the government. It can be taken up only as a means to put forth effectively the need of a purposeful dialogue to resolve the conflict," Shah said in a statement in Srinagar, while harping on the peace theme.
However, even taking such 'an odd step, obviously for the sake of our movement, would require all seriousness and sincerity on our part', he said.
He also appealed to all pro-freedom forces parties and personalities to unite at this critical juncture of 'our movement' to effectively face this challenge.
Hailing the role of militants in bringing the Kashmir issue to the international focus, Shah said after September 11, the political environment of the whole world has changed and now each country is advocating peaceful means to achieve political objectives.
"In the altered circumstances, we have to make our struggle which is, of course, genuine and based on truth, compatible with the altered circumstances. To do so we will have to reconstruct it along new lines."
"Only thus can we succeed in making our struggle effective, and powerful by turning international opinion in our favour," he said.
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