Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan recently declared Kashmir as “the crown of India,” advocating for the region to achieve complete normalcy before managing its affairs as a full-fledged state. This statement came during his visit to the revered Hazratbal Dargah in Srinagar, where Khan offered his prayers and expressed a deep-rooted emotional connection with Kashmir.
Khan’s visit highlights his long-standing relationship with Jammu and Kashmir, fostered over decades. “I am saying this to the whole of India that Kashmir is the crown of our head,” he shared while recollecting his frequent visits to the Valley throughout his public life.
The Governor reminisced about his tenure in the Union Home Ministry during the 1980s, recalling his engaging interactions with Kashmiri students in Aligarh and Amritsar. He remarked, “I have a long-standing bond with the people of Kashmir. Your hospitality is unmatched.” This warmth has further anchored his commitment to the region.
On a national scale, Khan urged a shift away from dynastic politics, emphasizing the evolution of Indian democracy which embodies the spirit of the common people. “In our democracy, sovereignty lies with the people, not the leaders,” he stated, illustrating how individuals from ordinary backgrounds can aspire to the highest offices of the land.
Reflecting on the historical context, Khan expressed sorrow over the enduring pain caused by the partition of India and the subsequent unrest in Kashmir. He stated, “When a country is divided, hate becomes institutionalized, and the people of Kashmir have paid the highest price for it.” This acknowledgment highlights the necessity for concerted efforts towards healing and reconciliation.
Khan called upon all Indians to embrace collective responsibility for restoring peace in Kashmir. He asserted, “The desire of the whole of India is that Kashmir function like any other state, but that requires creating normal conditions first.” His appeal resonates with a shared hope for stability in the region.
In a unifying message, Khan emphasized that achieving peace in Kashmir is not merely a regional concern but a national responsibility. “Wherever there is pain, it is our duty to respond, because insecurity in one place is a threat to security everywhere,” he concluded, urging citizens to recognize their role in fostering a harmonious society.
