Kashmir dispute 'can be resolved through diplomacy'

A prominent former Kashmiri separatist, who is contesting state elections in India, believes the long running territorial dispute over the status of Kashmir can be resolved.

Security guards on the streets of Indian Kashmir ahead of the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A prominent former Kashmiri separatist, who is contesting state elections in India, believes the long running territorial dispute over the status of Kashmir can be resolved.

The Chairman of the People's Conference Sajjad Lone is fighting assembly elections in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir with the results expected to be counted later this month.

He has contested federal elections but this is the first time he is entering state politics.

Mr Lone has told SBS' Hindi broadcaster Pallavi Jain he believes the territorial dispute on Kashmir can be resolved through calm and careful diplomacy.

(Click on the audio tab above to hear the full interview)