Hyderabad/Srinagar:
In a strongly worded and emotionally charged message, AIMIM chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to “adopt the people of Kashmir, not just the territory,” in response to recent protests in the Valley against Pakistan’s actions across the border. His statement comes amid escalating regional tensions, military deployments, and a renewed sense of unrest in Jammu & Kashmir.
Addressing a press conference in Hyderabad on Monday, Owaisi said, “Kashmiris are not a trophy to be showcased or an asset to be exploited. They are citizens with rights, emotions, and aspirations. If you truly care about Kashmir, then adopt Kashmiris as your own, not just the land.”
Context: Rising Tensions in the Valley
The political temperature in Kashmir has risen sharply over the past week following reports of increased ceasefire violations and provocative statements from Pakistani leaders. Thousands of people, mostly youth, took to the streets in several districts — not in support of Pakistan, but in outrage over its attempts to use Kashmir as a political pawn.
In a rare but significant development, slogans condemning Pakistan were heard echoing across parts of Baramulla, Pulwama, and Anantnag. Videos circulating on social media show young Kashmiris burning Pakistani flags and posters of its political leaders, signaling a shift in public sentiment — but also an opportunity the Indian government must not miss, Owaisi warns.
Owaisi’s Message: “This Is the Moment to Connect”
Owaisi emphasized that this rare wave of anti-Pakistan sentiment should not be viewed solely as a geopolitical gain but as a historic opportunity to rebuild trust between Kashmiris and the rest of India.
“Instead of deploying more troops, how about deploying empathy?” he said.
“Instead of muscle-flexing, try healing the wounds inflicted by decades of alienation and misunderstanding.”
He reminded the central government that political stability in Kashmir can only be achieved by integrating the people, not just administratively, but emotionally, economically, and culturally.
Direct Advice to Modi and Shah
In a direct appeal to PM Modi and Amit Shah, Owaisi said:
“You have the power to change the story of Kashmir. If you truly believe that Kashmir is an integral part of India, then treat Kashmiris like integral citizens. Don’t merely celebrate Article 370’s abrogation — follow it up with action that shows love, inclusion, and equality.”
He also questioned the Centre’s silence on increasing civilian unrest and the state’s growing youth unemployment crisis. “Where are the promised jobs, investments, and start-ups in Kashmir?” he asked. “Where is the Kashmiri voice in India’s mainstream political narrative?”
“Dissent Is Not Disloyalty”
Owaisi defended the democratic right of Kashmiris to protest, whether against Pakistan or against Indian policies they find oppressive.
“Don’t treat dissent as disloyalty. If Kashmiris raise uncomfortable questions, listen to them. Don’t slap sedition charges. Engage in dialogue. That is the true mark of democracy,” he asserted.
Mixed Reactions Pour In
Owaisi’s statement has drawn mixed reactions from political quarters. While opposition leaders from the Congress and PDP welcomed his message, BJP leaders called it “rhetorical and politically motivated.”
J&K BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur responded, saying, “Owaisi is known for playing the victim card. The Modi government has done more for Kashmir in the last 5 years than the Congress did in 50 years. His advice is unnecessary and misplaced.”
However, several independent Kashmiri voices on social media hailed Owaisi’s remarks as “bold,” “timely,” and “empathetic.”
A Test for the Central Government
As Kashmir once again occupies national attention, Owaisi’s statement serves as both a warning and a roadmap. It challenges the government to go beyond the rhetoric of nationalism and act with compassion and clarity.
The big question now is: Will New Delhi listen?
Or will this moment, ripe with the possibility of reconciliation and real unity, be lost to silence and security operations?
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