Tirupati: The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government would work with the new People's Democratic Party (PDP)-Congress coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir to counter cross-border terrorism and support development programmes in the state, Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani said on October 30.

Speaking to reporters at the airport in Tirupati, Advani said that the Centre would extend all help to the state government in tackling militancy and to develop the state.

Advani, who offered prayers at the Lord Venkateswara temple, along with his family members, said, "The victory of Democracy and subsequent formation of a new Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir is a major development."

He said that the Chief Minister designate, Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, during his talks with Prime Minister A B Vajpayee in New Delhi and himself, had dwelt on the collective and effective steps needed for the development of the state and for controlling cross-border terrorism.

Advani refused to comment when reporters drew his attention to Sayeed's reported statement that the Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) would not be implemented in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Deputy Prime Minister will attend the annual passing out parade at the National Police Academy at Hyderabad on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on October 31.

PTI