Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan described Kashmir as “the crown of India” during a visit to Srinagar on Thursday. He urged that the region must achieve complete normalcy to manage its own affairs effectively.
After offering prayers at the revered Hazratbal Dargah, Khan expressed his deep emotional connection with Kashmir, a bond he has nurtured for decades. “I am saying this to the whole of India: Kashmir is the crown of our head,” he remarked. His frequent visits to the Valley have helped foster this connection since his early years in public service.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Khan recounted interactions with Kashmiri students during his tenure in the Union Home Ministry in the 1980s. He described the students from Kashmir as warm and engaging individuals. “I have a long-standing bond with the people of Kashmir. Your hospitality is unmatched,” he added, showcasing the cultural ties that bind different regions of India.
In terms of the national political landscape, the Governor emphasized the evolution of India’s democracy, stating it surpasses dynastic politics. Khan remarked, “In our democracy, sovereignty lies with the people and not the leaders. A person born in an ordinary house can rise to become the Prime Minister or the President,” highlighting the inclusivity of Indian governance.
During his address, Khan also touched on the pain stemming from the partition of India and subsequent unrest. He expressed sorrow over the difficulties faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, indicating that the region has endured significant suffering over the decades. “When a country is divided, hate becomes institutionalised, and the people of Kashmir have paid the highest price for it,” he said.
Calling for peace and collective responsibility, the Governor noted that the entire nation shares the hope for Kashmir’s stability. “The desire of the whole of India is that Kashmir function like any other state, but that requires creating normal conditions first,” he emphasized.
In a message that resonated with empathy and unity, Khan proclaimed that achieving peace in Kashmir is a national and human responsibility. He concluded, “Wherever there is pain, it is our duty to respond, because insecurity in one place is a threat to security everywhere.” This statement reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of safety and peace across regions.