Kashmir issue cannot be addressed through security approach alone, requires political engagement: Mirwaiz

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chief cleric of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasized the significance of compassion in the pursuit of peace during a Friday sermon at Srinagar's Jamia Masjid. Referring to a recent International Crisis Group report, he acknowledged the decline in militancy, street protests, and violence over the past years. However, he cautioned that such reductions in violence do not automatically imply resolution of underlying political grievances or restoration of public confidence.

The report, Mirwaiz highlighted, emphasizes that security measures alone are insufficient to address the complex political and human dimensions of the issue, as Kashmir remains one of the most militarized regions globally.

Mirwaiz further pointed out the alarming increase in arrests and detentions since 2019, noting that according to the Union Home Ministry's figures, 3,662 individuals were detained under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in Jammu and Kashmir during this period, with only 23 convictions recorded. This troubling statistic raises critical questions about the use of prolonged detention, due process, and the excessive application of stringent laws.

He also lamented the restrictive measures imposed on political and civic activities, the shrinking space for peaceful expression, curtailment of free reporting, and the growing sense of alienation among the populace. Mirwaiz urged for a review of cases involving notable figures such as Yasin Malik, Shabir Ahmad Shah, Shahid Ul Islam, and Engineer Rashid, and called for the restoration of civil liberties and an environment conducive to peaceful expression of views and grievances.

He stressed that while governments bear their responsibilities in maintaining security, the aspirations of the people must also be acknowledged and addressed in any genuine path towards peace.