SRINAGAR: In a first-of-its-kind initiative in a decade, Civil society members from different parts of Kashmir came together in solidarity with the victims of targeted killings and to discuss the role of Religious Leaders as well as to welcome Shri Amarnathji yatris.
Interestingly, all this happened without any banner or any organization or platform.
The conference, according to a press release issued by the facilitator, was organised with an aim to study the role of Islamic Religious Leaders in creating harmony between different communities as well as to explore the future in Kashmir’s Context.
During the conference, several prominent religious leaders of Kashmir valley highlighted the significance of Civil society in contemporary times and the ways for creating a harmonious and livable society.
The conference also discussed the importance of Holy Amarnathji Yatra and its contribution to the overall development of the entire Jammu and Kashmir. The religious luminaries on the occasion committed that they will provide all possible support to the government of J&K for successful and peaceful yatra this year.
Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Muzaffar highlighted about the role of Civil society in establishing a harmonised society and said that Civil society plays a vital role for the development of society.
Malik Mohammed Jameel, an eminent islamic scholar, while speaking on the occasion highlighted the important role of the Islamic Religious Leaders in creating amity and how they can be ambassadors of good will and foster understanding. He added the importance of such iniriatives which can serve as meeting ground of diverse views and can further foster communal harmony.
Mirwaiz Addul Latief Bukhari, Mirwaiz Central Kashmir while speaking on the Future of Future in Kashmir’s context, stressed on more and more participation of religious leaders to dispell mistrust amongst communities. He pointed out that the religious leaders in present times are not doing their best to be an instrument of change. Further, he assured the gathering that in coming months the religious leaders will be proactive in educating empathy, harmony, understanding through sermons in their respective areas in J&K.
Mufti Nasir Ahmad, a leading seminary of Kashmir valley, spoke on the challenges in the way of any change. He observed that one is bound to face obstacles and difficulties in way of any fruitful change or initiative. All such obstacles can be overcome with conviction and aiming for greater good. Good coordination, consistent amicable efforts do bear results, he added.
Master Ghulam Nabi Gani and Raja Muneeb, in their address, called upon all Kashmiris to welcome Shri Amarnath ji yatris. They said that it’s our duty to cooperate for a peaceful yatra and a chance to extend our hospitality, for which Kashmir is known for. “Every yatri should carry a message of peace and harmony from this holy land. The participants of this unique conference have brought forward the importance of people’s power.”
They urged the government to facilitate and expand the space for the Civil society to play its role and come forward to dispel any mistrust or disharmony.
