Srinagar: National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Thursday expressed concern over ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises in different parts of the world, saying the lack of unity and coordination among Muslim countries was ultimately harming poor and ordinary people.
Addressing a gathering in Srinagar, Abdullah voiced concern over violence, human rights violations and the loss of civilian lives in Palestine, Lebanon, Iran and other regions. He said the killing of innocent children, women and elderly people, along with the destruction of hospitals, schools, universities and other essential infrastructure, was a matter of grave concern.
He said violations of fundamental human rights and the targeting of civilians could not be justified and urged global powers to uphold international law and universal principles without double standards.
Referring to the Muslim world, Abdullah said the absence of collective action and coordination among Muslim countries was weakening their ability to respond effectively to humanitarian crises.
“Muslim countries must learn from the difficult circumstances confronting the world today and strengthen unity, cooperation and coordination among themselves. The price of disunity is ultimately being paid by the poor and ordinary people,” he said.
The NC president also expressed concern over the growing menace of drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as a serious threat to the future of the younger generation. He called for a united effort involving parents, teachers, religious leaders, political workers and civil society to tackle the problem.
On the issue of statehood, Abdullah said restoration of statehood remained one of the most urgent requirements for Jammu and Kashmir and described it as an essential step towards strengthening democratic institutions and restoring the constitutional rights of the people.
Meanwhile, Abdullah visited the residence of late Sheikh Abdul Latif, son of late Sheikh Ghulam Mohammad, at Upper Soura and offered condolences to the bereaved family. He prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul and expressed solidarity with the family in their time of grief.