Geelani aghast over ban of TV channels; Terms it as ‘fascist approach’ of Govt

Srinagar: Syed Ali Geelani has expressed shock against ban on media and TV channels and while terming the ban on almost three dozen TV Channels in Kashmir, as ‘fascist approach’ of the government.

Geelani in a statement issued to KNS added that the real purpose behind all these actions is to promote Zafrani dogma and pave way for Hindu Rashtra.

“Such tactics of oppression reflect authoritarian mindset and it is highly deplorable that even channels specified for religious preaching and teachings were removed from air,” said Geelani.

Blaming state authorities for their autocratic approach, Geelani said that it is direct interference in religious matters and war against media.

Geelani while castigating authorities for strangulating genuine voices, said that they want to isolate the Kashmiri population as the authorities do not want the reality of Kashmir to be highlighted internationally and does not want people of Kashmir to have access to information other than what New Delhi filters into Kashmir through state sponsored and biased channels.

He stated that “these autocratic and unjustified steps are warning signals for us and we should introspect over these developments, lest they will change the very basic fabric of our society.”

Geelani impressed people to forge unity among their folds and stressed that instead of fighting over insignificant, minor and factional issues, we should promote sense of unity and work together for promoting ethical and religious values.

He said that the restriction on and TV channels have been imposed on behest of the RSS and Zafrani brigade and cautioned that these restrictions, can further deteriorate the situation here.

Referring to channels preaching Islamic teachings and values, Geelani said that “it is beyond comprehension that these channels are responsible for unrest in Kashmir, whereas the fact remains that the current unrest and uprising in Kashmir is because of the forced occupation and bloodshed carried by Indian forces.”

Geelani stressed people to resist the hegemony of India and added that the steps and measures taken by Governor Regime are ‘disturbing’ and “if not resisted, our next generation, will be left with no option other than to follow their dictates and even may be forced to attend temples.”

Meanwhile, Geelani expressed his deep concern over vandalizing residential houses in Moshwaar Keller village of south Kashmir’s Shopian district.

Geelani blamed forces for waging war on people, saying “state authorities have let loose of terror in nook and corner of state and their forces are suffering from frustration and can go to any extent.”

Hurriyat chairman also condemned the ‘brutal’ forces for their ‘arrogant and immoral attitude’.

“It is highly deplorable that during night raids the inmates are thrashed and their property ransacked,” he said.

Appealing international community for their cognizance, Geelani asked to take serious notice of appalling situations in occupied state and help rescue subjugated people in Jammu Kashmir.

Meanwhile, Geelani expressed his deep grief over the demise of Haji Habib Ullah Khan.

Hailing his contribution, Geelani said that since long late Habib Ullah was maintaining Mazar-e-Shuhada Eidgah.

Praying for his heavenly abode, Geelani extended his condolences with grieved family and prayed for their forbiddance to bear this irreparable loss.

Meanwhile, a high level delegation of Hurriyat Conference comprising of Hakim Ab Rashid, Syed Mohd Shafi and Mohammad Saleem Zarger participated in his funeral prayer. (KNS)