SRINAGAR — Kashmir’s chief preacher Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday expressed concern over the loss of lives in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and appealed to the Government of Pakistan and protesters to restore peace and address grievances through consultation.
“Deeply saddened and pained by reports of loss of life of civilians and police personnel in the continuing unrest on the other side of LOC especially in Rawalakot and Poonch. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by these tragic events,” the Mirwaiz said in a post on X.
He said he was also concerned by the ongoing discussions regarding representation and the constitutional and political status of the large number of Kashmiri state subjects residing in Pakistan.
“Questions touching upon identity, representation and political rights require 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 (LoC) 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.
Asserting that his family has “longstanding historical associations” with the social, educational, religious and political development of communities across Jammu and Kashmir, including those on the other side of LoC, the Mirwaiz called upon Pakistan to prioritise dialogue and restraint.
“As I continue to hear expressions of anguish and distress from people across the LoC reaching out regarding the unrest, I urge the Govt of Pakistan and the local government there, to prioritise dialogue, restraint and engagement, resolving the differences through consultation and accommodation rather than confrontation, with respect for human rights and the sanctity of human life remaining paramount,” he said.
He also appealed to the protesting parties to exercise wisdom and responsibility.
“Both need to 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 added. — (PTI)