After a successful convention of religious clerics in Jammu in January, the Jammu & Kashmir Nationalist’s People Front (JKNPF) brought together a historic confluence of prominent Muftis, Maulavis and Khatibs here today at SKICC, Srinagar, to discuss measures to counter radicalization, contemplate on the need to modernize madarasa education; the role of women in creating violence free society; and the role of religious leaders in creating the constructive mindset and attitude.
“We all have the responsibility of bringing peace to every nook and corner of the world,” says Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, global spiritual leader and peace maker, whose work in peace building has been a source of inspiration for the members of JKNPF, “Unless every member of our global family is peaceful, our peace is incomplete.”
The conference witnessed Shri Manoj Sinha, Lt. Governor, J&K, as the Keynote Speaker.
Appreciating the initiative he said,”Jammu and Kashmir have been the hub of spirituality since ancient times. Humanity and love have prevailed here with existence of different religions. Problem arises because of ignorance. Radicalisation should not be associated with a specific religion. With the help sufi saints, religious leaders and women in the society this needs to be addressed. Youth need to be directed in the right direction. Education needs to be imparted to everyone. Inspiring folk stories should be translated in all five languages for everyone to get access to those. Administration is doing everything possible for it. Education is being modernised and vocational training is being imparted to students. Over 607 vocational labs have been established in school. Schools have been geotagged.”
“In next two years we aim to ensure that no house is deprived of electricity, water and access to roads.” added Shri Manoj Sinha
This conference, for the first time, opened the room for discussing fundamental changes that have the potential to bring long term peace in the valley, by ridding the influence of radicalization.
“Conferences like these should continue to happen, the message of peace should a common message for all,” said, Mufti Nisar ahmad Sahib, “J and K is the land of sufi saints, people from all religions were brought together and made the message of brotherhood and peace common amongst all. Through this conference we want to send a message to all youth and everyone that the relief that one gets through peace and brotherhood is not found anywhere else. Islam gives the same message of brotherhood & peace.”
Ahmad Sahib further said, “The same message of peace should go from every mosque to the citizens. We want to see the same wave of peace which was spread by sufi saints back in Kashmir.”
Khalida Parveen won the audience over when she shared a touching story about what Allah said, when he was asked what he does when he is very happy with someone. To which Allah, said, “I bless them with a daughter.”
“The voice for peace has risen from this platform and we want to send this message to all of Kashmir, across the border and this world that we are brothers and we will coexist peacefully like this together,” said Sheikh Mujjaffar, President, Jammu and Kashmir Nationalist People’s Front.
