Mirwaiz Umar Farooq holds 'aggressive posturing' of Indian dispensation responsible for Kashmir unrest

Srinagar: Alleging that aggressive posturing in the approach of the current Indian dispensation with regard to Kashmiri people led to the current deteriorating situation, Awami Action Committee chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Tuesday warned that it could "lead to catastrophic consequences for the whole region". "What is sad is that the aggressive posturing in the approach of the current Indian dispensation with regard to Kashmiri people has greatly led to the current deteriorating situation here and this can lead to catastrophic consequences for the whole region," said Mirwaiz in a video released here. Addressing the people of India in the wake of protest-violence triggered by the killing of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani on Friday, he said, "I want to convey to the people of India that for the sake of humanity, peace and progress in the region they need to understand the truth and reality of Kashmir and play their role with regard to resolving this political issue." The Awami Action Committee chairman said the Kashmir issue is not about governance or giving economic packages and neither it is about economic incentives. "You have to understand the fact that today the youth of Kashmir are dying on the streets, not asking for jobs or perks. So, what is the actual problem, what is the actual issue?" he said. Talking about the actual problem, he said, "It is the issue of people's right, their basic right. And let me say that tomorrow is 13th of July, it marks 85 years of the struggle of the people of Kashmir. Our fifth generation has now vehemently joined the journey for freedom and they are offering sacrifices and they are giving lives today." "So, let it be understood that no amount of force or military might or oppression will deter them as it is clear for the past more than 70 years," he added. With the Centre rushing additional 12 companies of the para military and 800 more CRPF personnel to the valley, Mirwaiz said, "Sending of more troops, which the government has decided, and giving them more powers giving them full powers to deal sternly with the local populace will definitely add fuel to the fire as it will be greatly resisted by the people." Suggesting the way out of the current situation, Mirwaiz said, "The only way out of this problem is to address the problem political and not militarily and initiate engagements among all stakeholders to the issue that is India, Pakistan and most importantly the people of Jammu and Kashmir with the view to resolve the issue once for all." Meanwhile, normal life across the valley remains affected for the fourth consecutive day. Shops, business establishments, courts, petrol pumps and markets are closed in Srinagar. The attendance in government, semi-government offices and private offices is largely affected. The public transport is off the roads. One youth, who sustained bullet injuries at Bijbehara in Anantnag on Sunday, succumbed to his injuries late last night. Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said the police and paramilitary forces have been asked to exercise maximum restraint to avoid loss of civilian lives or grievous injuries. She also sought cooperation from cross section of people to help the government in restoring peace and normalcy.