The Mirwaiz criticised the reading down of Article 370 saying it was an assault on Kashmiri identity, adding harsh and unilateral decisions of disempowerment were taken by the administration.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chairman of the Hurriyat Conference, made his first public appearance following his release and reiterated the separatist amalgam’s stance on the resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue. He emphasized the necessity for dialogue and peaceful means to resolve the long-standing conflict.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also highlighted the people of Kashmir’s commitment to peaceful coexistence among different communities and nations. He underscored their longstanding advocacy for the return of Kashmiri Pandits, emphasizing that it’s not a political but a human issue.
According to Mirwaiz, the region of Jammu and Kashmir comprises parts in India, Pakistan, and China, as it existed in August 1947. He acknowledged the division of people due to geopolitical boundaries and stressed that the international community supports the need to address this issue.
The Hurriyat chairman emphasized that the separation of families across India-Pakistan borders is a profound human issue, transcending geographical considerations. He called for understanding the human values and relationships involved and moving towards resolving these issues.
Mirwaiz referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent statement on Ukraine, highlighting that this era is not one of war but of peaceful resolution. He reiterated the Hurriyat’s commitment to pursuing dialogue and reconciliation as an alternative to violence, despite personal sacrifices made in this pursuit.
Mirwaiz expressed the Hurriyat’s primary concern, which is representing the interests and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the people’s desire for a peaceful settlement and stressed the importance of resolving the issues to alleviate their difficulties. He envisioned a new phase of peace and prosperity that could commence once these issues are resolved.
