Srinagar, July 15: Mirwaiz Maulana Umar Farooq, a prominent separatist leader in Kashmir, has expressed profound sorrow over the loss of life and property across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
In a post on the social media platform X, Farooq conveyed his grief regarding reports of civilian and police fatalities amid ongoing unrest, particularly in the areas of Rawalakot and Poonch.
He stated, “I am deeply saddened by the news of deaths among civilians and police personnel during the ongoing turmoil across the LoC, especially in Rawalakot and Poonch. My condolences and prayers are with the affected families and all those impacted by these events.”
Farooq also voiced concern over the representation of the large number of Jammu and Kashmir residents living in Pakistan and the discussions surrounding their constitutional and political status.
He emphasized the need for sensitivity, dialogue, and public trust on issues such as identity, representation, and political rights. “The strength and legitimacy of any government depend on the level of support and trust it garners from the public,” he added.
He reminded that the history and the social, cultural, and familial ties existing on both sides of the LoC highlight how events in one part of Jammu and Kashmir affect the other and the Kashmiri community worldwide.
Farooq noted that his family has long been involved in the social, educational, religious, and political development of all communities in Jammu and Kashmir, including those living across the LoC.
He urged the Pakistani government and local authorities to prioritize dialogue, restraint, and mutual contact. “Differences should be resolved through conversation and mutual understanding rather than confrontation, with utmost importance given to human rights and the safety of lives,” he stated.
He called on all parties involved in the protests to act with wisdom and responsibility. “Both sides should take steps to restore peace as soon as possible and regain the trust of the people. I pray for lasting peace, stability, and a peaceful resolution of this issue for all people of Jammu and Kashmir on both sides of the LoC.”
The unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has persisted for 37 consecutive days. Thousands gathered in Rawalakot to protest, where Joint Action Committee (JAC) leader Sardar Aman Khan accused Pakistan of forcibly occupying the region. He also dismissed Islamabad’s long-standing claim that the area is part of Pakistan, insisting, “This is not a disputed area; it is an occupied territory that has been forcibly seized.”
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