Stone-pelting would not help Kashmir: Azharuddin tells youth

Srinagar /April,22: Stone-pelting would not help Jammu and Kashmir and the youth of the state should channelise their energy towards constructive pursuits, former captain of the Indian cricket team Mohammad Azharuddin said Wednesday.
He also advocated a political initiative to reach out to the people of the state.
“Yes, there should be a political initiative, because if you do not take it, then you have to continue to face such problems (violence),” the cricketer turned politician told reporters at the sidelines of an event in Baramulla district, 55 kms from here.
Azharuddin and actor Dia Mirza were in north Kashmir town in connection with a two-day youth festival Jashn-e-Baramulla, organised by Army, which concluded Wednesday.
The cricketer also said that stone-pelting would not benefit the youth of Kashmir.
“I am totally against stone-pelting. God has bestowed you with youth but you are ruining it by hurling stones. What will you achieve? You will pelt for one year, two years, what will happen afterwards? You should use your youth for something good, nurture your talent and get education as it will show you what is right and what is wrong,” he said.
He said that when people do not read and study, there is the danger of someone guiding them to the wrong path.
Citing the example of Kashmiri cricketer Pervez Rasool, he said Kashmiri youth are talented but need proper guidance.
The start has been made by Pervez, I want others to join in and if you play well then no one can stop you, he said.
Azharuddin emphasised that violence was not the solution to issues.