Srinagar, July 31, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Hurriyat Conference chairman and Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Friday expressed concern over the recent unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), calling for dialogue, an impartial investigation into the reported deaths, and respect for the rights and dignity of the people.
Addressing the Friday congregation at Srinagar’s historic Jama Masjid, the Mirwaiz said he was deeply saddened by reports of continuing unrest and loss of lives across the Line of Control (LoC) over the past several weeks. He called for a prompt, impartial and transparent investigation to establish the facts and said every loss of life, whether of civilians or police personnel, should be mourned.
Offering prayers for those killed and injured, he expressed solidarity with affected families and urged authorities to act with justice, restraint and wisdom.
Referring to the situation in Rawalakot, Mirwaiz said the people of Jammu and Kashmir should remain at the centre of decisions concerning their future. He said that despite the Line of Control dividing the region geographically, it had not severed shared historical, cultural and family ties among Kashmiris.
He appealed to the Government of Pakistan and the administration in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir to engage with representatives of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) and other stakeholders, saying lasting peace and stability could only be achieved through dialogue, constitutional fairness and respect for human rights.
The Mirwaiz also said that any genuine public movement should remain inclusive and respect the constitutional rights of all sections of society. Referring to Kashmiri refugees and migrants living in different parts of Pakistan, he said their voting rights and constitutional status should not become a subject of political bargaining and deserved equal protection.
Concluding his address, he reiterated that the struggle for justice and political rights should remain inclusive of all communities across Jammu and Kashmir, irrespective of region, ethnicity or religion. He called for peace, reconciliation and dialogue, urging leaders to prioritise the welfare and dignity of the people.
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