Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Thursday described Kashmir as “the crown of India,” asserting that the region must achieve complete normalcy before managing its affairs effectively.
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the revered Hazratbal Dargah in Srinagar, Khan emphasized his emotional connection to Kashmir, which has spanned several decades. “I am saying this to the whole of India that Kashmir is the crown of our head,” he remarked, recalling his frequent visits to the Valley during his early years in public service.
Khan shared his reminiscences from his time in the Union Home Ministry during the 1980s, describing interactions with Kashmiri students in Aligarh and Amritsar, and highlighted their warm and engaging nature. “I have a long-standing bond with the people of Kashmir. Your hospitality is unmatched,” he added.
Shifting focus to the larger political landscape, the Governor criticized dynastic politics, stating that India’s democracy has matured. “In our democracy, sovereignty lies with the people, not the leaders. A person born in an ordinary household can rise to become the Prime Minister or the President,” Khan asserted, underscoring the inclusive essence of Indian democracy.
Khan expressed deep sorrow for the region’s suffering, recalling the traumatic events of the partition and the consequent unrest. “When a country is divided, hate becomes institutionalized, and the people of Kashmir have paid the highest price for it,” he remarked.
Calling for peace and a sense of collective responsibility, Khan stated that the entire nation harbors a wish for Kashmir to regain stability. He noted, “The desire of the whole of India is that Kashmir function like any other state, but that requires creating normal conditions first.”
Highlighting the importance of empathy and unity, the Governor reiterated that ensuring peace in Kashmir constitutes a shared national and humanitarian duty. “Wherever there is pain, it is our duty to respond, because insecurity in one place is a threat to security everywhere,” Khan concluded.
