A social transformation programme, Asluk Aalav, based on five major reformative agendas, was organised in Shopian on Thursday by the Public Welfare Foundation Shopian.
The event was addressed by Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Syed Darakhshan Andrabi and BJP General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul. Waqf Board Executive Officer for Shopian Javed Qadiri and political leader and social activist Arshid Bhat were also present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Andrabi said that Asluk Aalav is a significant social transformation and public discourse initiative that is being organised regularly across different districts of Kashmir. She said that vibrant societies must remain concerned about the future, and the programme series focuses on issues that will shape society in the years ahead.
“Strengthening cultural and spiritual ties with our glorious past is essential for building a crime-free society. We belong to the holy land of Sufis and Rishis, and reconnecting with their teachings of inclusiveness will protect us from divisive forces,” Dr Darakhshan said.
She further stressed the need for a broader and holistic approach to guide the younger generation towards a drug-free, violence-free and morally responsible society living in harmony with nature.
“We have suffered immensely due to hatred and violence in the past and cannot afford to face the consequences of divisive forces again. We must strengthen peace and establish a fearless and progressive society,” she added.
In his address, Ashok Koul said that the youth must be prepared to face the challenges of the modern world and encouraged to become responsible citizens with positive thinking and a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally.
“Communal harmony, brotherhood and the spirit of social service are essential for creating a peaceful society. We need to build bridges to fill the gaps within our social fabric,” Koul said.
He added that inter-community dialogue and social discourse are necessary for building a peaceful and progressive society.
Among others who participated in the public dialogue were Mufti Azmat Nizami, Hafiz Saleem, Molvi Peerzada Fayaz, Molvi Peerzada Tariq, Molvi Javid Iqbal, Public Welfare Foundation Chairman Peerzada Nisar Ahmad Shah, Secretary Farooq Ahmad Shah, General Secretary Fayaz Ahmad, Fruit Mandi Association Shopian President Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Retired Police Officers Association District Shopian President Haji Ghulam Qadir Shah, Fruit Growers President Mohammad Rafiq Khan and Alamdaar Cold Storage President Aashiq Hussain.(KINS)
