Kashmir problem is core issue between India, Pakistan: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

SRINAGAR - All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) moderate faction chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq led a massive protest in Srinagar on Saturday, and reiterated that the Kashmir problem is the core issue between India and Pakistan.

The march that began from Jamia Masjid, or the big mosque witnessed the participation of thousands of people including women.

“The Kashmir issue is an important issue. No matter how India tries it can never suppress the issue. We want to convey the fact that the issue cannot be solved with sheer force. Until the feelings of the common people are understood,” said Farooq.

“Until the people of India, Pakistan and Kashmir sit together and talk about this issue till then no economic package, no election, no employment and other promises would move the people of Kashmir away from the core issue,” he added.

Farooq further said the peace process would proceed ahead only after the situation of Kashmir is solved.

“Until all the young prisoners are released, torture and violence is stopped. Until the forces are removed from the city and towns, the camps and bunkers are removed and the Armed Forces and Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is repealed, no peace process would proceed ahead,” he added.

The Hurriyat leader later led a procession of more than 10,000 people to the famous Hazratbal shrine, which was, however, halted midway by the police and dispersed peacefully. (ANI)