Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD) People’s Democratic Party (PDP) MLA Waheed Para has strongly criticized the recent ban on Awami Action Committee (AAC) and Itehadul Muslimeen, calling it an attempt to stifle moderate voices in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters in Jammu, Para expressed his disappointment over the move, particularly targeting the crackdown on Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent religious and political figure. “Mirwaiz Umar has never advocated violence. Instead, he has always been a strong proponent of peace, dialogue, and interfaith harmony. This ban is unfortunate and aimed at silencing voices that have historically promoted reconciliation,” Para stated.
The Awami Action Committee (AAC), founded by Mirwaiz Umar’s family, has been a key socio-political organization in Kashmir for decades, advocating for peaceful negotiations and the rights of Kashmiris. Itehadul Muslimeen, a smaller but influential religious group, has also been vocal on social and political issues in the region.
“This is not about security. This is about suppressing voices of reason and dialogue,” Para asserted. He also warned that such measures could push disillusioned youth toward radical elements, as mainstream and moderate platforms are systematically shut down.
In recent years, Kashmir has witnessed an increasing crackdown on political and socio-religious groups, particularly those advocating dialogue and a middle ground. Several organizations have been either banned, de-registered, or their leaders placed under house arrest.
Many believe that Mirwaiz Umar’s repeated calls for peace, interfaith dialogue, and non-violence contradict the justification for banning AAC. Even during the peak of unrest, Mirwaiz had called for engagement and talks between India, Pakistan, and Kashmiri leadership to resolve disputes.
Para urged the government to reconsider its approach, emphasizing that engagement with moderate and influential voices like Mirwaiz Umar is key to long-term peace in the region. “If reconciliation is the goal, why are those advocating peace being silenced?” he asked.(DD)