Srinagar, Oct 04: Kashmir’s head priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, stated that he has consistently opposed the use of guns and violence in addressing the Kashmir issue.
He emphasized that elections should not be viewed as a resolution to the longstanding conflict. In a sermon at Jamia Masjid, he noted that the Hurriyat has never opposed elections but disagrees with claims that they resolve the Kashmir issue, which remains unresolved since its inception.
Mirwaiz criticized the Government of India’s actions on August 5, 2019, asserting that these do not constitute a resolution. He called for dialogue as a means to achieve lasting peace in the region, recalling previous discussions with leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee, L.K. Advani, and Manmohan Singh. He warned against the potential escalation of conflict in Kashmir, likening it to situations in the Middle East.
He highlighted that the Hurriyat does not want youth involved in violence, as the conflict has affected multiple generations. Mirwaiz urged a united approach among mainstream political parties in Jammu and Kashmir, suggesting they prioritize collective interests over personal ambitions.
He reiterated that while the Hurriyat is not against elections, they should not be misconstrued as a solution to the political dispute in Kashmir. He called on the Government of India to engage in meaningful talks to address the issue.
Mirwaiz also raised concerns about the closure of historic Jamia Masjid during significant religious occasions and expressed hope for greater freedom to attend religious functions amid his ongoing legal challenges regarding house arrest.
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