Kashmir Issue Requires Political Engagement, Not Just Security Approach: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

Kashmir's chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, stated during a Friday sermon at the historic Jama Masjid that the Kashmir issue cannot be resolved solely through a security-driven approach and calls for political engagement and reconciliation efforts.

According to reported statements from his address, the Mirwaiz emphasized that longstanding grievances demand sincere reconciliation efforts. He noted that while authorities acknowledge an improved situation, this progress should serve as an opportunity to lift restrictions, review detentions, and restore civil liberties.

Key Points from the Address

• Call for Political Engagement: The Mirwaiz maintained that political issues require political solutions rather than security-focused measures alone.
• Reference to International Report: He highlighted findings from an International Crisis Group report, which advocates for the restoration of Statehood, empowered elected governance, and renewed dialogue between India and Pakistan.
• Detention Statistics: Citing Union Home Ministry figures reported in the context, he pointed out that 3,662 individuals were arrested under the UAPA in Jammu and Kashmir between 2019 and 2023, with 23 convictions recorded during the same timeframe.
• Incarcerated Figures: The cleric appealed for humanitarian consideration, review of cases, and the release of detained political figures, including Yasin Malik, Shabir Ahmad Shah, Shahid Ul Islam, Engineer Rashid, Asiya Andrabi, and Masrat Alam.

Defining True Peace

Asserting that peace is not merely the absence of protests or a decline in violence, the Mirwaiz stressed that true peace is measured by the restoration of public trust. He remarked that dialogue remains a responsible path forward, referencing past regional tensions and reiterating that the aspirations of the people remain central to any meaningful peace process.

Readers can verify the original announcements and reporting details through established news outlets such as The Hindu.