Day-long conference of civil society members held to give message against targeted killings

Civil society members during a conference at SKICC, Srinagar on Monday.
Civil society members during a conference at SKICC, Srinagar on Monday.

Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 27: In a first of its kind initiative in a decade, Civil society members from different parts of Kashmir came together at a conference to give a message of solidarity against the targeted killings, discuss role of religious leaders in creating harmony between different communities and to welcome Shri Amarnath pilgrims.

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During the conference titled ‘The Future of the Future in Kashmir’s Context’ held at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), several prominent religious leaders of Kashmir valley highlighted the significance of civil society in the contemporary times and the ways for creating a harmonious and a livable society.
The conference also discussed the importance of holy Amarnath pilgrimage and its contribution to the overall development of Jammu and Kashmir. The religious luminaries on the occasion committed that they will provide all possible support to the Government of J&K for successful and peaceful pilgrimage this year.
Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Muzaffar highlighted about the role of civil society in establishing a harmonized society and said that civil society plays a vital role for the development of society.
Malik Mohammed Jameel, an eminent Islamic scholar, while speaking on the occasion, highlighted how Islamic religious leaders can be ambassadors of good will and foster understanding. He added that the importance of such initiatives can serve as meeting ground of diverse views and can further foster communal harmony.
Mirwaiz Addul Latief Bukhari, Mirwaiz Central Kashmir while speaking on the future of future in Kashmir’s context, stressed on more and more participation of religious leaders to dispel mistrust amongst communities. He pointed out that the religious leaders in present times are not doing their best to be an instrument of change. Further, he assured the gathering that in coming months the religious leaders will be pro active in educating empathy, harmony and understanding through sermons in their respective areas in J&K.
Mufti Nasir Ahmad, a leading seminary of Kashmir valley, observed that one is bound to face obstacles and difficulties in way of any fruitful change or initiative. “All such obstacles can be overcome with conviction and aiming for greater good. Good coordination, consistent amicable efforts do bear results,” he added.
Master Ghulam Nabi Gani and Raja Muneeb, in their address, called upon all Kashmiris to welcome Shri Amarnath pilgrims. They said that it’s their duty to cooperate for a peaceful pilgrimage. Every pilgrim should carry a message of peace and harmony from this holy land, they added.
The participants of the conference urged the Government to facilitate and expand the space for the civil society to play its role and come forward to dispel any mistrust or disharmony.