Concerned over civilian deaths, Mirwaiz urges Pakistan to prioritise dialogue, restraint in PoK
Kashmir chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has called for dialogue and restraint following civilian deaths during unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). He urged local authorities to prioritize human rights and address political grievances through consultation rather than confrontation.
Why it matters
The statement highlights the ongoing volatility in the region and the humanitarian impact of political instability across the Line of Control.
Kashmir chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday (July 15, 2026) expressed concern over the situation, especially killing of civilians in clashes, in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and called upon Pakistan to “prioritise dialogue, restraint and engagement”.
“As I continue to hear expressions of anguish and distress from people across the Line of Control (LoC) reaching out regarding the unrest, I urge the Government of Pakistan and the local government there to prioritise dialogue, restraint and engagement, resolving differences through consultation and accommodation rather than confrontation, with respect for human rights and the sanctity of human life remaining paramount,” said the Mirwaiz.
He also expressed “deep sorrow and pain over reports of the loss of civilian lives and police personnel in the continuing unrest on the other side of the LoC, especially in Rawalakot and Poonch.
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