By Tehelka Web Desk
Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Tuesday expressed concern over the continuing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, saying he was “deeply saddened and pained” by reports of civilian and police casualties, and urged the governments and protesting groups to resolve differences through dialogue.
In a post on X, Mirwaiz said he was “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,” he said.
The Mirwaiz also voiced concern over what he described as “ongoing discussions regarding representation and the constitutional and political status of the large number of Kashmiri State Subjects residing in Pakistan.”
He said that “questions touching upon identity, representation and political rights require sensitivity, dialogue and broad public confidence.”
Stressing the importance of public trust, Mirwaiz said, “The legitimacy and strength of any system of governance rests ultimately upon the consent, trust and confidence of the people it serves.”
Referring to the historical and cultural links across the Line of Control, he said, “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.”
Mirwaiz also referred to his family’s historical role, saying, “My family has a longstanding historical association with the social, educational, religious and political development of communities across Jammu and Kashmir, including those on the other side of the LoC.”
Saying that he had been receiving expressions of concern from across the LoC, he urged the authorities in Pakistan and the local government there to engage in dialogue.
“As I continue to hear expressions of anguish and distress from people across the LoC regarding the unrest, I urge the Government 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.
Mirwaiz also appealed to those participating in the protests to act responsibly.
“I also appeal to protesting parties to exercise wisdom and responsibility. Both need to work towards restoring peace and public confidence at the earliest,” he said.
Concluding his message, the Mirwaiz said, “I pray for lasting peace and stability for all people of Jammu and Kashmir on both sides of the LoC and its resolution.”
