Terming the past bilateral talks and agreements between India and Pakistan as an exercise in futility, Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq today stated that Government of India instead of dealing Kashmir issue through economic packages, financial concessions or by using military means should adopt a realistic policy based on political realities to move forward in that regard.Addressing a delegate convention in Town hall Islamabad in connection with the 50th foundation day of Awami Action Committee, Mirwaiz stated that Kashmir issue was not a regional or a boundary issue between India and Pakistan, but it was the issue of 1.3 crore people whose political future is convicted with the dispute. He added the world community including UN has accepted Kashmir as an international dispute.
Stating the viewpoint of Kashmiris regarding the solution to the dispute was of primary importance, Mirwaiz said that the GOI’s recent rant of Kashmir being a bilateral issue was not factual and was away from reality.Expressing concern over the calling off foreign secretary level talks between India and Pakistan, APHC Chairman stated that we believed that the present dispensation in New Delhi would follow the footsteps of its predecessor Atal Bihar Vajapyee, and would move forward towards solving the Kashmir issue within the ambit of Humanity. However, Mirwaiz stated that the tense situation was being created and Kashmiris were being pushed towards wall by use of military force.
Asserting that Kashmir issue cannot be solved through sham elections or change in government, Mirwaiz stated that since 1947 such a process was being repeated, but Kashmir remained a dispute as it was then. He further said that even the military might of India could not suppress the popular movement for freedom.Terming AAC as a reflection of Muslim Conference, Mirwaiz stated that the party was not founded 25 years ago, but its roots can be traced back to 1931 when the founders of freedom struggle laid its foundation. He stated that Mahajar-e-Millat Moulvi Yousf Shah laid the foundation of Muslim Conference in Kashmir and from then onwards it went through testing times and is finally standing to this day. He said by showing complete commitment and resolve to the cause as exhibited by AAC, freedom can be achieved.
Mirwaiz stated that AAC has struggled for the political, religious, economic and social rights of Kashmiris since past 50 years, adding, the AAC was not restricted to valley, but is representing the emotions and aspirations of entire state. He paid glorious tributes to all those leaders and workers of the party who laid their lives for the cause. He appealed the people of Islamabad to get in touch with Youth for Kashmir program started by AAC, adding, people can give their suggestions and advice to the AAC any time they like through this program.
Senior Hurriyat leaders including Mukhtar Ahmad Waza, Mufti Zia-ul-Haq Nazmi, Peerzada Abdul Majid, Prof. HU Jeelani, Advocate Nasrulla and M.S Rehman Shamas spoke on the occasion. Apart from party cadres from Islamabad, senior Hurriyat leaders like Pandit Bhushan, GN Zaki, Gh. Qadir Beigh, Sofi Mushtaq Ahmad and others were also present on the occasion. (KNS)