J&K : Mirwaiz Umar Voices Concern Over Escalating Bloodshed in PoJK

Srinagar : As unrest in Pakistan-occupied-Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) continues to intensify, with repeated clashes leading to loss of life and growing public anxiety, Kashmir’s chief Muslim cleric and Hurriyat Conference chairman, Mirwaiz Muhammad Umar Farooq, has expressed deep anguish over the deteriorating situation and called for an immediate return to dialogue, restraint and respect for the rights of the people.

The ground situation across several towns, particularly Rawalakot and Poonch, has remained tense in recent weeks amid protests linked to political representation, governance and constitutional issues. The unrest has led to violent confrontations between protesters and security forces, resulting in fatalities among both civilians and security personnel, while concerns over public confidence, political participation and democratic rights have increasingly come to the fore. Reports indicate that the ongoing agitation is centred on questions of representation in the regional assembly and broader demands related to political and economic rights.

Reacting to these developments, Mirwaiz Umar said he was deeply saddened by reports of civilian and police casualties arising from the continuing turmoil across the Line of Control (LoC). In a post on 'X', he conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and offered prayers for all those affected by the tragic events.

The Mirwaiz also voiced concern over the ongoing debate surrounding the representation and constitutional status of a large number of Kashmiri State Subjects residing in Pakistan. He noted that issues relating to identity, representation and political rights are inherently sensitive and require broad public confidence, meaningful consultation and sustained dialogue rather than confrontation.

Emphasising the importance of popular consent in governance, the Mirwaiz said that the legitimacy and strength of any political system ultimately rests on the trust and confidence of the people it serves. He observed that the deep social, cultural and familial ties binding communities across Jammu and Kashmir mean that developments in one part of the region are keenly felt in another, as well as among Kashmiri diaspora communities across the world.

Recalling his family's long-standing historical association with communities throughout J&K, including those living on the other side of the LoC, the Mirwaiz said he has continued to receive expressions of anguish and distress from people affected by the ongoing unrest. He stressed that these concerns underscore the need for a peaceful and inclusive approach to resolving differences.

Appealing directly to the Government of Pakistan, local authorities and all stakeholders involved, the Mirwaiz urged them to prioritise dialogue, engagement and accommodation. He said that disputes and grievances should be addressed through consultation rather than coercion, with the protection of human rights and the sanctity of human life remaining paramount.

At the same time, he appealed to protesting groups to exercise wisdom, responsibility and restraint, stressing that all sides must work collectively towards restoring peace, stability and public confidence at the earliest.

Concluding his message, the Mirwaiz prayed for lasting peace and stability for the people of J&K on both sides of the de facto border and reiterated the need for a peaceful resolution that safeguards the rights, dignity and aspirations of all those affected by the ongoing developments.

Reacting to the escalating unrest in PoJK, India on Tuesday attributed the turmoil to what it termed Pakistan's long-standing denial of fundamental rights and continued administrative oppression in the region.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the ongoing protests reflected deep-seated grievances among the local population and alleged that, instead of addressing these concerns, Pakistani authorities had resorted to excessive force. New Delhi also urged the international community to take note of the situation and hold Islamabad accountable for what it described as human rights violations and the loss of civilian lives during the ongoing crackdown.