Raises alarm over growing harassment of Kashmiris in other states; Warns against using Kashmiris as “Fodder in Cycle of Alienation”
Srinagar, Nov 20:
Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference President & MLA Handwara Sajad Lone on Thursday expressed profound concern over reports of harassment of Kashmiris across the country, calling upon the central government to ensure their safety and dignity.
In a press Statement issued here reads that”Reports of harassment of Kashmiris across India are coming in. Stereotyping of a Kashmiri unfortunately is a favourite hobby across the country,” Lone stated, adding that “it is not a new trend. It is just that it has become more chronic in the last decade.”
Highlighting the anxiety faced by Kashmiri families, JKPC Chief said, “I am sure lakhs of Kashmiris are in the other parts of the country for purposes of business or education or some other work.
The families of these people are most concerned that no adverse events should take place which will put the safety of their loved ones in danger.”
Lone acknowledged that extremism exists but emphasized it should not define an entire community. “Yes there are radical lunatics in every society. But they are an aberration,” he remarked, warning that “in case of Kashmir, the primary purpose of their actions is to ensure that the Kashmiri is harassed and chased away in his own country. And be used as fodder in the vicious cycle of alienation.”
He made a direct appeal to the Prime Minister’s Office and the Home Ministry, urging them to “please ensure that any citizen of India including Kashmiris are not harassed in their own country.”