Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan referred to Kashmir as “the crown of India” during a visit to the Hazratbal Dargah in Srinagar on Thursday. He stressed the need for the region to attain complete normalcy before managing its affairs effectively.
Khan shared his personal connection to Kashmir, claiming it stretches back decades. “I am telling the whole of India that Kashmir is the crown of our head,” he remarked, reminiscing about his frequent visits to the Valley since his early public life.
Recalling his time in the Union Home Ministry during the 1980s, Khan expressed fond memories of interacting with Kashmiri students. He painted a picture of their warmth and hospitality, stating, “Your hospitality is unmatched. I have a long-standing bond with the people of Kashmir.”
Turning the focus to the national political landscape, Khan emphasized that India has made strides away from dynastic politics. “In our democracy, sovereignty lies with the people, not with leaders,” he argued, highlighting the potential for anyone from humble beginnings to rise to positions of power.
Khan expressed deep sorrow about the partition and the ensuing decades of unrest experienced in Jammu and Kashmir. “When a country is divided, hate becomes institutionalized, and sadly, the people of Kashmir have paid the highest price for it,” he reflected.
The governor advocated for national unity and collective responsibility. He pointed out that everyone in the country desires to see Kashmir regain its stability. “The entire nation wishes for Kashmir to function like any other state, but achieving that requires creating normal conditions first,” he asserted.
In concluding his remarks, Khan delivered a poignant message about empathy and national responsibility for peace in Kashmir. “Wherever there is pain, it is our duty to respond, because insecurity in one place is a threat to security everywhere,” he urged.
