Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan described Kashmir as “the crown of India” on Thursday, urging the region to achieve complete normalcy to manage its affairs effectively. His remarks came during a visit to the revered Hazratbal Dargah in Srinagar.
Speaking to reporters, Khan shared his deep emotional connection with Kashmir, which he says spans several decades. He declared, “I am saying this to the whole of India that Kashmir is the crown of our head.” Khan has frequently visited the Valley since his early years in public service.
Reflecting on his experiences in the Union Home Ministry during the 1980s, Khan spoke fondly of his interactions with Kashmiri students in Aligarh and Amritsar. He described these experiences as warm and enriching, adding, “I have a long-standing bond with the people of Kashmir. Your hospitality is unmatched.”
Turning towards national politics, Khan emphasized the evolution of India’s democracy beyond dynastic influences. He remarked, “In our democracy, sovereignty lies with the people, not the leaders. A person born in an ordinary house can rise to become the Prime Minister or the President.” His comments stress the inclusive nature of Indian democracy.
During his address, Khan also acknowledged the long-lasting pain of partition and the following years of unrest, expressing sorrow over the struggles faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He stated, “When a country is divided, hate becomes institutionalised, and the people of Kashmir have paid the highest price for it.”
Khan called for peace, underscoring the collective responsibility of the nation to support Kashmir in regaining stability. He said, “The desire of the whole of India is that Kashmir function like any other state, but that requires creating normal conditions first.”
In a message emphasizing unity, the Governor reiterated the need for peaceful cohabitation in Kashmir. “Wherever there is pain, it is our duty to respond, because insecurity in one place is a threat to security everywhere,” he concluded.
