Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan labeled Kashmir as the ‘crown of India’ during his recent visit to Srinagar, where he urged the importance of normalcy in the region for its governance. Khan’s remarks came after he worshipped at the admired Hazratbal Dargah on Thursday.
In his address to reporters, Khan shared his emotional connection with Kashmir, stating it spans several decades. He highlighted, “I am saying this to the whole of India that Kashmir is the crown of our head.” His frequent visits to the Valley since his early public life underline his commitment to the region.
Khan reminisced about his interactions with Kashmiri students during his tenure in the Union Home Ministry in the 1980s. His memories of warm and engaging conversations in Aligarh and Amritsar paint a picture of the rich cultural exchange he experienced. “I have a long-standing bond with the people of Kashmir. Your hospitality is unmatched,” he asserted, acknowledging the unique warmth of the locals.
The Governor also spoke on the evolution of India’s democracy, distancing himself from the era of dynastic politics. “In our democracy, sovereignty lies with the people, not the leaders. A person born in an ordinary house can rise to become the Prime Minister or the President,” he emphasized, reflecting on the inclusive nature of India’s political landscape.
Khan addressed the historical pains of partition and its aftermath, articulating the ongoing struggles faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “When a country is divided, hate becomes institutionalised, and the people of Kashmir have paid the highest price for it,” he noted, showcasing a deep understanding of the region’s socio-political context.
The Governor’s call for peace resonated strongly. He asserted that restoring stability in Kashmir is not only a regional concern but a national one. “The desire of the whole of India is that Kashmir functions like any other state, but that requires creating normal conditions first,” Khan stated, emphasizing how critical it is to foster a peaceful atmosphere.
In a message that emphasizes shared human responsibilities, Khan stated, “Wherever there is pain, it is our duty to respond, because insecurity in one place is a threat to security everywhere.” His words reflect a call for empathy and unified action among the citizens of India, stressing that peace in Kashmir aligns with national interests.
The statements made by Governor Khan come at a time when the Indian government seeks to promote stability and inclusiveness in Jammu and Kashmir. As discussions around governance and progress in Kashmir gain momentum, his message reiterates the necessity of restoring normalcy as a prerequisite for effective state management.