Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. File
| Photo Credit: ANI
Kashmir chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday (July 15, 2026) expressed concern over the situation, especially killing of civilians in clashes, in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and called upon Pakistan to “prioritise dialogue, restraint and engagement”.
“As I continue to hear expressions of anguish and distress from people across the Line of Control (LoC) reaching out regarding the unrest, I urge the Government of Pakistan and the local government there to prioritise dialogue, restraint and engagement, resolving differences through consultation and accommodation rather than confrontation, with respect for human rights and the sanctity of human life remaining paramount,” said the Mirwaiz.
He also expressed “deep sorrow and pain over reports of the loss of civilian lives and police personnel in the continuing unrest on the other side of the LoC, especially in Rawalakot and Poonch.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by these tragic events,” said the Mirwaiz. At least six civilians are believed to be killed in fresh clashes in PoK in the past 24 hours. PoK is witnessing a major upheaval in the past few weeks over a slew of demands.
“I am also concerned by the ongoing discussions regarding representation and the constitutional and political status of the large number of Kashmiri State subjects residing in Pakistan. Questions touching upon identity, representation and political rights require sensitivity, dialogue and broad public confidence,” said the Mirwaiz.
The MIrwaiz said the legitimacy and strength of any system of governance rests ultimately upon the consent, trust and confidence of the people it serves. “Our history and our shared social, cultural and family ties across the Line of Control remind us that happenings in one part of Jammu and Kashmir are deeply felt in another, and among our diaspora communities around the world,” said the Mirwaiz.
The Mirwaiz said his family had longstanding historical associations with the social-, educational-, religious- and political development of communities across Jammu and Kashmir, including those on the other side of the LOC.
“I also appeal to protesting parties to exercise wisdom and responsibility. Both need to work towards restoring peace and public confidence at the earliest,” he added.
The Mirwaiz also prayed for “lasting peace and stability for all the people of Jammu and Kashmir on both sides of the LoC and for its resolution.”
Published – July 15, 2026 03:24 pm IST
