Jammu, July 19: Slamming Pakistan’s persistent policy of terrorism, Ashok Bhan, a prominent figure in Kashmiri politics and Supreme Court lawyer, on Friday said the people of Kashmir are steadfast in their commitment to constitutional democracy.
Delivering a keynote lecture at a civil society event in New Delhi, Bhan said the Kashmiri society, despite being Muslim-majority, has rejected extremism and religious fundamentalism. He denounced Pakistan’s promotion of terrorism and proxy wars, describing them as detrimental to the peace and progress of the region.
“Pakistan continues to pursue terrorism as an official policy, aiming to impose a regressive socio-cultural order on the people of Jammu & Kashmir,” Bhan said, adding. “Kashmir, historically a cradle of civilisation, has consistently rejected bigotry and religious extremism.”
Highlighting recent incidents, the SC lawyer slammed Pakistan’s tactical shift in pushing highly trained terrorists into the hilly terrains of Jammu. He condemned the July 15 attack by terrorists that resulted in casualties among Indian Army personnel.
Ashok hailed the valour and resilience of the security forces and Jammu & Kashmir Police in combating insurgency. “The valiant efforts of our armed forces, police, and the support of local residents have ensured that such attempts to spread terror will not succeed,” he said. “The patriotic resolve of the people of Jammu region remains unyielding against the radical ideologies promoted by outfits like Jaish.”
Bhan expressed confidence that the combined efforts of the Indian Army, security forces and J&K Police, supported by the unwavering solidarity of the people, will soon eliminate terrorism from the region. He reiterated the determination of the people of Jammu to uphold the composite and inclusive identity of Jammu, preserving its pride and valour.
“Pakistan’s change in terror tactics will inevitably meet defeat in the face of our united front,” Bhan concluded, calling for continued support for peace and stability in Jammu & Kashmir.
