Hurriyat Conference chairman and Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday voiced concern over the ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, urging the Government of Pakistan and the local administration to resolve the crisis through dialogue, restraint, and respect for human rights.
The appeal came a day after at least nine people were reportedly killed in clashes in PoK. Since the unrest began in June, nearly 30 people have been killed in the violence in PoK.
In a post on X, Mirwaiz said he was “deeply saddened and pained” by reports of deaths of civilians and police personnel, particularly in Rawalakot and Poonch.
“Deeply saddened and pained by reports of loss of life of civilians and police personnel in the continuing unrest on the other side of the LOC, especially in Rawalakot and Poonch. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by these tragic events,” he said.
Mirwaiz also expressed concern over the ongoing debate surrounding the constitutional and political status of a large number of Kashmiri State Subjects residing in Pakistan, saying issues relating to identity, representation, and political rights required sensitivity, dialogue, and broad public confidence.
“The legitimacy and strength of any system of governance rests ultimately upon the consent, trust, and confidence of the people it serves. Our history and our shared social, cultural, and family ties across the Line of Control remind us that happenings in one part of Jammu and Kashmir are deeply felt in another, and among our diaspora communities around the world,” he said.
He also referred to his family’s longstanding historical association with the social, educational, religious, and political development of communities across Jammu and Kashmir, including those across the LoC.
Saying that people from across the LoC had reached out to him expressing anguish over the situation, Mirwaiz appealed to the Government of Pakistan and the local government there to prioritise dialogue, consultation, and accommodation instead of confrontation, while ensuring respect for human rights and the sanctity of human life.
He also urged the protesting parties to exercise wisdom and responsibility, saying all stakeholders should work towards restoring peace and public confidence at the earliest.
“I pray for lasting peace and stability for all people of Jammu and Kashmir on both sides of the LoC and its resolution,” he said.
