Geelani appeals Germany to call off Zubin Mehta concert GK NEWS NETWORK Srinagar, Aug 24: The chairman Hurriyat Conference (G), Syed Ali ShahGeelani, Saturday opposed the scheduled concert of India-born musician Zubin Mehta in Kashmir, appealingthe German Ambassador Michel Stenier to reconsider his decision in view of the ‘disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir.’ “The international events held in the disputed territory interfere with its status,” said Geelani in a statement today, adding, “Any sort of international activity, be it political, diplomatic, cultural or sports will have an adverse effect on disputed nature of Jammu and Kashmir. We, therefore, wish that Germany should play a responsible role and keep away from any such move that may affect the noble cause of people in Kashmir. These events can be used to change the disputed nature of Kashmir dispute.” Referring to 1983 international cricket match between West Indies and India, Geelani said, “Taking into consideration disputed nature of J&K, the people of Kashmir had opposed it. We have similar reservations with regard to the cultural programme proposed to be organized on September 7.” Geelani reminded German Ambassador that in year 2004, visiting European Union delegation while commenting on the grim situation here, had declared Kashmir a ‘beautiful prison’ and supported the just cause of Kashmiris. “Therefore, it is not suitable in any case for a responsiblemember of European Union to organize a cultural programme for a selected gathering for their entertainment, ignoring thesufferings of inmates of this beautiful jail,” he said. “People of Jammu and Kashmir are peace-loving and hospitable. People from any corner of the world are respected and welcomed by Kashmiris. Even we don’t have any grudge with the people of India. However, for the last 66 years politicaluncertainty and instability prevails due to violation of basic human rights. The government of India, despite having admitting at national and international level that the people of Jammu Kashmir would be given opportunity to decided their political futureas per their aspirations, did not till date fulfill that commitment. It doesn’t even honor our right to self-determination. The UN has not only accepted the international character of the Kashmir conflict but alsoaccorded sanction to 18 resolutions in this regard,” Geelani said. Commenting on the alleged violation of human rights, Geelani said there is no let up in these incidents. “Kashmiris are still waiting for return of mortal remainsof Shaheed Muhammad Afzal Guroo. Scores of persons were killed by Indian forces after Afzal Guroo was hanged. People were also killed in Markundal and Gool incidents. The German government should not ignore and organize a cultural show. This will push our all sacrifices to the background,” he said, expressing hope that “the government of Germany willunderstand our problem in its right perspective, reconsider it its decision and honor the sacrifices, sentiments and aspirations of people of Kashmir.” “The German government’s right decision will substantiate and honor the aspirations of people of Kashmir and convey a sense of solidarity with our martyrs, orphans, widows, ten thousand missing youth and hundreds of those detainees languishing in jails,” Geelani said, adding that the government of Germany will prove itself as a responsible State and will not legitimize the ‘atrocitiesbeing perpetrated by Indian forces’ on people of Kashmir. Geelani reiterated his viewpoint and said, “We arestriving for a noble cause. We have a voice on various related issues. We do not consider the personal likingsor disliking but what we seeis harmful to our cause, we without any bias oppose it. It is our democratic right. None of the civilized nationscan deny this fact,” he added.
Posted on: Sun, 25 Aug 2013 03:26:51 +0000
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