Jammu and Kashmir youths should be given credit for the decline in militancy-related violence in the valley, a senior Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officer has been quoted as saying after inaugurating a football tournament in Srinagar.
"There has been a huge support of the people, the youth. It [the decline in violence] would not have been possible without your support. The voice of new Kashmir is being seen in the fields, be it in cricket, football or other sports. So, the major contribution has been of the youth of Kashmir, the people of Kashmir," Inspector General Ajay Yadav from the CRPF in Srinagar said.
“It is my strong belief that the coming year will be better than today and the people will lend their support [to peace],” he added.
Sixteen teams are participating in the football tournament, which has been organized especially for the youth by the CRPF.
“This is Naya Kashmir and the youth will march ahead. I am hopeful that many youths from this tournament will play for India in the future. Sports also plays a very important role in keeping youths away from drugs,” said the officer, adding that such events would help the youth to find a path to live their lives in a better way.