Politics cannot divide Hindus, Muslims in Kashmir: Sandeep Mawa

Srinagar, May 20: Kashmiri Pandit leader Sandeep Mawa said Hindus and Muslims in Kashmir have historically shared bonds of brotherhood and accused political actors of attempting to create divisions in society for “dirty politics”.
Sandeep made the remarks while visiting the residence of Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid to offer condolences over the death of his father.
Addressing reporters, Sandeep said Kashmir’s social fabric was rooted in communal harmony and urged people not to allow religious divisions to weaken society.
“Hindus, Kashmiri Pandits and Kashmiri Muslims are one. Religion does not teach division. We are human beings first,” he said.
He said attempts to divide Hindus and Muslims for political gains would not succeed in Kashmir and stressed the need for peace and unity in the region.
Sandeep also appealed to the media and political parties not to create communal polarisation, saying Kashmir needed peace, development and economic progress.
“We want Jammu and Kashmir to become a place of peace where people progress in business, jobs, industry and start-ups,” he said.
Referring to jailed MP Engineer Rashid, Sandeep said an elected representative should be allowed to perform his duties and alleged that democracy was being weakened by keeping political leaders behind bars.
“He has been elected by the people of north Kashmir. Democracy should be strengthened, not weakened,” he said.
Sandeep also expressed sympathy with Rashid over the death of his father while he remained in custody and urged the judiciary to expedite the legal proceedings related to the MP.
He said democracy, humanity and Kashmiriyat should be protected and strengthened in the region. (KNS)