Srinagar, Feb 11 (KNS): Stressing that Kashmiris by observing complete shutdown on the martyrdom anniversaries of Maqbool Bhat and Afzal Guru have shown their strong resolve and commitment to the great mission of martyrs and freedom struggle, Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has said that people have once again proved that liberation struggle was sacred and was above everything. He further said that Kashmiris have also proved that they can’t overlook their cherished freedom struggle just for the sake of some petty economic or some individual benefits.
According to a statement issued to KNS, Mirwaiz said that authorities left no stone unturned to prevent people from observing the commemoration of the two martyrs. He said just for demanding the mortals of two martyrs and paying homage to them, authorities resorted to all the tyrannical measures by arresting and house arresting hurriyat leaders, activists, workers, arresting youths, and imposing undeclared curfews across villages and towns in entire Kashmir since past three days.
Mirwaiz said such suppressive tactics openly display the anti-people policy pursued by the state against Kashmiris, adding, it also deflated their claims that Kashmir was peaceful.
Mirwaiz said force and terror, economic grants and personal benefits, would in no way crush the spirit of freedom among the Kashmiri people, neither can it buy their loyalty.
He said that three day shut down to remember martyrs should once again serve an eye opener for the world community and Indian leadership that Kashmir issue can’t be solved by unleashing terror and force or by economic grants. He said Kashmir issue can only be solved through political means in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of people.
Meanwhile, hurriyat spokesman has sternly condemned the arrest of senior leaders including Mukhtar Ahamd Waza, Zaffar Akbar Bhat, Javed Ahmad Mir, Hakim Abdul Rashid, Hilal Ahmad War, Mushtaq Ahamd Sofi, adding, the conglomerate also condemnes the house arrest and arrests of hurriyat activists, workers and raids on their houses. Terming such tactics as dictatorial, spokesman said such undemocratic measures would not stop them from not pursuing the sacred cause of freedom.
Spokesman also condemned the arrest of senior hurriyat leader Syed Bashir Andrabi and other activist including hamim Mir and Afroz Iqbal from Pulwama chowk when they were staging a protest. Spokesman said despite restrictions and curfew, Andrabi and others were able to protest and demand the mortal remains of Maqbool bhat and Afzal Guru. (KNS)