LoC skirmishes: Geelani urges Indo-Pak leadership to exercise restraint, resolve Kashmir

5 Dariya News

Srinagar 25-May-2018

Chairman Hurriyat Conference (G)Syed Ali Geelani on Friday expressed his deep concern over the loss of precious lives in recent shelling on the Line of Control (LoC).In a statement issued to GNS, Geelani said that unless Kashmir dispute is resolved in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of people, the risk of collision between the two nuclear powers will be devastating not only for the region, but for the whole world.Geelani appealed to India and Pakistan to demonstrate restraint and wisdom and play a constructive role for peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue, which he said poses a threat to world peace.He blamed Indian authorities for their “stubborn attitude” and said its forces have created mayhem and have turned the state into “butcher house”.While hailing people for their commitment and determination, Hurriyat (G) chairman said that “despite atrocities perpetrated by forces, people are braving bullets and pellets; this serves a message for occupiers that they can never cow down our aspirations or force us to submission”.

Suggesting authorities to read the writing on the wall, Geelani said their rhetoric about development and construction of projects can never lure people. He said Sadak, Pani, Bijli and power projects are not the solution for Kashmir issue.“The valiant people of Kashmir have proved time and again that no amount of torture could dissuade them from pursuing their legitimate and inalienable right to self-determination,” he said.“Despite India utilizing all its resources and military might for the last 70 years, the issue is there and not an iota of change seems to have happened on the ground,” Geelani said and while hailing people for their exemplary sacrifices for ongoing freedom movement said that “people understand India and its puppets are exploiting and looting our resources”.Terming the Kashmir issue as bone of contention between India and Pakistan, Geelani said sincere steps were needed to resolve this dispute.Criticising Indian authorities, Geelani said, “Their narratives reflect negative and egoistic approach. Both nuclear countries must play their rightful role in facilitating a just and lasting solution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant UN resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.”Meanwhile, Syed Ali Geelani, who continues to be under house arrest, was again not allowed to offer Friday prayers, a spokesperson of Hurriyat (G) said.Flaying the administration, the spokesperson said, “It is a brazen interference in religious affairs and even today, in the month of Ramadan, Geelani was barred from offering Friday prayers. He continues to be virtually in jail.” (GNS)