Says Islam reached Kashmir through Iran; Demands release of Protest detainees, Asks Centre to Reconsider Iran Policy; Calls Revocation of Sonam Wangchuk’s Detention ‘Late but Welcome’
Srinagar, Mar 14: Mehbooba Mufti, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Saturday expressed solidarity with the people of Iran and urged the Union Government to reconsider its policy towards the country.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, Mufti said a meeting of former MLAs of the party passed a resolution expressing support for Iran and appreciated the people of Kashmir for holding peaceful protests in solidarity with the Iranian people. She also appealed to the people of Kashmir to pray for the people of Iran and the Muslim Ummah.
Highlighting the historical and cultural links, Mufti said that Islam reached Kashmir through Iran, underlining the deep spiritual and civilizational ties between the two regions.
Mufti further urged Muslim countries to extend support to Iran and said conflicts and wars only disturb the global economy and global stability.
She also appealed to the administration led by Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, to reconsider the decision to arrest people who participated in protests and demanded the release of those who are still lodged in jails.
Referring to the revocation of detention of Sonam Wangchuk, Mufti said the step was welcome though such action should not have been taken in the first place, adding that Wangchuk had worked for environmental protection.
She also mentioned Shabir Ahmad Shah, stating that his daughter had struggled legally for his release.
Mufti added that while some people manage to approach courts for relief, many economically weaker prisoners cannot afford legal battles and deserve attention and justice.
