Srinagar, January 18 (KNS): The All Jammu & Kashmir Shia Association (AJKSA) expresses its strong concern and disappointment regarding the meeting organized by Mutahida Majlis e Ulama Kashmir on January 18, 2025, in light of the recent controversy. As the largest Shia organization in the region, AJKSA finds its exclusion from this event not only surprising but also deeply troubling. The deliberate sidelining of the most prominent representative body of Shias in Jammu & Kashmir raises serious questions about the intentions and transparency of those who organized the gathering.
According to a statement issued to KNS reads that “The All Jammu & Kashmir Shia Association condemns the deliberate exclusion of our organization from the recent religious gathering. It is deeply concerning that some leaders, known for their controversial stances, were invited and given a platform, while the AJKSA—a body that has consistently worked for the welfare of the Shia community and broader societal harmony—was ignored. This selective approach is unacceptable and unjustified,” stated Molvi Syed Adeel Murtaza, a representative of AJKSA.
He further remarked, “Our association has always upheld the principles of unity, peace, and lawful conduct. We support the steps taken by the authorities against those who engage in unlawful activities from either of the factions. However, this does not mean we will tolerate extremist ideologies in the garb of unity.”
The AJKSA strongly denounces all attempts to create divisions and spread animosity within the community. The association takes serious exception to the rising trend of using derogatory slogans such as ‘Shia Kafir,’ which are deeply offensive and designed to incite hatred. “We will not tolerate any attempts to malign our faith or create sectarian rifts through such inflammatory rhetoric. These actions go against the very spirit of Islam, which emphasizes unity and mutual respect,” Mr. Adeel asserted.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Furthermore, AJKSA condemns the ill-intended actions by certain individuals that seek to exploit religious differences for political gain or divisive purposes. “We stand firmly against the agendas of those who seek to manipulate the sentiments of the people for their own narrow interests. We know full well who has been planted to further these divisive narratives and will not allow any group or individual to use the Shia community—or any community—for their own purposes,” Mr. Adeel emphasized.
The association also strongly condemned the dissemination of provocative and inflammatory content on social media, warning that such actions only serve to fuel existing tensions and disrupt the fragile social harmony in the region. AJKSA urged the community to remain vigilant against such tactics and to report any hate speech or divisive propaganda.
“Despite these challenges and attempts to marginalize our contributions, AJKSA remains steadfast in its mission to promote peace and unity among all communities in Jammu and Kashmir. We believe in fostering a society where differences are respected, and mutual understanding is prioritized,” emphasized Mr. Adeel.
The AJKSA has called for a more inclusive approach in organizing events of religious and social significance, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to address the pressing issues facing the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “It is imperative that all stakeholders come together for constructive dialogue and work towards the betterment of society, setting aside sectarian differences and promoting inclusive growth. We cannot afford to let divisive elements succeed in their attempts to undermine our unity,” Mr. Adeel concluded.
The association reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of the Shia community, ensuring that their voice is neither suppressed nor sidelined in matters of importance.(KNS)