Kashmir youngsters should not be treated like criminals: Rajnath Singh

Srinagar: Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have been asked to treat youngsters, who might have committed some mistakes, under the Juvenile law and not like criminals.

Security forces have also been asked to avoid the use of excessive force while dealing with law and order situation, he said.

"I appeal to the youth not to be swayed by the attempts of some people and stay away from stone-pelting. We all including the Prime Minister are concerned about the future of the youth," he told reporters here.

The Home minister said the people of Jammu and Kashmir want to shape their destiny and future by their hard work.

"Terrorists have destroyed many generations and we will not allow them to destroy one more generation. I have told the security forces to treat youngsters, who might have committed some mistakes, under the Juvenile act. They should not be treated as criminals," he said.

"However, we will be firm in our response to terrorists and their activities," Singh said.

The situation in Kashmir Valley has improved significantly over the past year and some green shoots of peace are visible, Singh said as he expressed willingness to meet every stakeholder to resolve long-standing issues.

Singh, who is on a four-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, told reporters that the tree of peace in Kashmir has not dried up and that a permanent solution to Kashmir issue is based on five 'C's -- compassion, communication, coexistence, confidence building and consistency.

He said during his visit he has interacted with police and CRPF personnel and he will also meet the army personnel.

"I am willing to meet anyone who wants to help us in resolving problems of Kashmir. There is no question of a formal or informal invitation. Those who want to talk should come forward. I always come here with an open mind," Singh said when asked if the government was ready to hold talks with separatists.