Militancy not a solution, but innocent civilians must not suffer in anti-militancy drive: Hakeem To PM Modi, HM Shah

Srinagar: President Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Front (J&K PDF) and former minister, Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen, on Sunday reiterated that militancy is not the solution to any issue and that the people of Jammu and Kashmir fully support the administration’s ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace.
In a statement to the media, Hakeem Yaseen said that for more than three decades, the scourge of militancy has brought untold misery to the region, leading to widespread unemployment, poverty, and the disruption of social and economic life. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir have suffered enough due to violence. We stand firmly with all measures aimed at rooting out militancy and ensuring a secure, prosperous future for our youth,” he said. However, Hakeem emphasized that while strong action against militancy is necessary, it must be implemented with caution and sensitivity. “Innocent civilians who have no involvement in terrorism should not be made to suffer. Demolishing the homes of families who have no direct connection to militant activities can create unnecessary resentment and undo the gains made toward peace,” he cautioned. He pointed out that a large section of Kashmir’s youth and society has wholeheartedly rejected violence and returned to militancy terrorism and those who have embraced peace and democracy. Those who have chosen the path of reconciliation should be encouraged, not alienated,” he added.
Appealing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, Hakeem urged the Central Government to ensure that counter-militancy operations are conducted in a manner that is just, lawful, and humane. “There must be a clear effort to avoid collateral damage, and every action should take into account the rights and dignity of innocent civilians,” he said. Hakeem reiterated that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are committed to peace and development and that every step taken must strengthen this bond of trust. “Militancy must be defeated with determination, but it is equally important that justice, empathy, and fairness guide us in this journey toward lasting peace,” he concluded.
Highlighting another growing concern, Hakeem condemned the recent incidents of violence against Kashmiri students, traders, and workers in some states outside Jammu and Kashmir. “Our students, traders, and workers are being attacked without any fault of theirs. This is unfortunate and must be stopped immediately. We are all citizens of the same country, and every Indian, regardless of region, deserves safety and dignity,” he said. He urged authorities in different states to ensure the protection of Kashmiris and promote a spirit of brotherhood and national unity. Reiterating his party’s commitment to peace and reconciliation, Hakeem said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir want to move forward with the rest of the country. “Militancy must be rooted out, but justice, empathy, and national unity must be our guiding principles,” he concluded.