Dialogue, not coercion, is the way forward in Kashmir: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq
Srinagar: In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, senior All Parties Hurriyat Conference leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has strongly condemned the BJP-led Indian government’s ongoing repressive measures against Kashmiris, asserting that issues cannot be resolved through coercion, but only through dialogue.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Mirwaiz was addressing a Friday congregation at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar today, after being under house arrest for three consecutive weeks.
He said, “Imposing bans, placing restrictions, terminating people from government jobs, confiscating the properties or attaching the homes is extremely unfortunate”. These measures, he said, only deepen people’s suffering rather than alleviating their hardships.
“Such pressure tactics do not resolve issues. Instead, they further alienate people and create a wider gulf. Hearts and minds cannot be won through coercion, but through compassion and understanding.” “Meaningful dialogue is the only way to win hearts and minds and find lasting solutions,” he said.
He expressed disappointment over repeatedly being barred from entering the Jamia Masjid and fulfilling his religious and social responsibilities as the Mirwaiz. He termed the restrictions undemocratic and reflective of the arbitrary actions of those who seek to rule by force rather than by the true spirit of democracy. He urged authorities in New Delhi to show foresight and wisdom in dealing with the territory’s issues.
“I have always maintained, and will continue to maintain, that the only way forward is through engagement and dialogue,” he said. “It is only by talking, listening, and addressing issues sincerely that issues can be resolved. Coercive measures and repeated restrictions will never yield positive results.”
