Kashmiris want peace, not fear: Hakeem

Srinagar, May 05: People’s Democratic Front (PDF) and former minister, Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen on Monday said the people of Jammu and Kashmir have suffered immensely due to terrorism over the past three decades, and are now united in their resolve to end this cycle of violence and instability.
In a statement issued here, Yaseen said the people of Jammu and Kashmir are peace-loving, and they have paid a heavy price for the violence that has gripped the region for over 30 years.
“The pain, fear, and loss that our people have endured is beyond words. We stand firmly with them and are committed to supporting every effort aimed at restoring lasting peace in the region,” he said.
Hakeem stressed the need for a united societal approach to curb terrorism, which he termed a shared enemy of progress and humanity.
“We must rise above political and ideological differences to collectively counter the forces that want to destabilise our region. We are with the people in this fight and are determined to take strong and effective steps to wipe out this menace from Jammu and Kashmir once and for all,” he said.
Referring to the recent killing of a youth in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, the former minister demanded a judicial probe to establish the truth behind the incident.
Yaseen also urged the security agencies and the administration to exercise utmost caution and sensitivity while dealing with civilians and security-related operations. “Those in charge of law and order must be vigilant and ensure that innocent lives are not lost. Miscreants who seek to disturb peace and harmony should be identified, exposed, and dealt with sternly,” he said.
Expressing serious concern over the increasing incidents of killings by unidentified gunmen, the PDF chief said the prevailing situation has instilled deep fear among the common people.
Such acts of violence, he said, are unacceptable and run counter to the collective aspirations of the people for peace and stability.
Hakeem said his party is committed to non-violence, justice and the restoration of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.