SRINAGAR: Aijaz Guru, brother of Afzal Guru executed for Parliament attack, today said that Pakistan should stop interfering in Kashmir.
Speaking to Excelsior, Guru who is contesting Assembly elections from Sopore seat emphasized that Pakistan should not interfere in Kashmir, pointing out that the people of Kashmir have lost everything to politics.
“Whether it was Hurriyat or the mainstream, we lost everything because of it. Pakistan should focus on fighting for Gaza instead and not interfere in Kashmir.”
Guru attributed Kashmir’s instability to exploitation by the “enemy (Pakistan),” which he said led to 35 years of disorder and the loss of many lives.
In an indirect reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, without naming him, Guru said that Kashmir’s throne was taken “forcefully” and stressed the importance of restoring it with dignity.
Guru—who mentioned that he has lived separately since 2000—acknowledged having ideological differences with his brother since childhood, but noted that politicians often use Afzal Guru’s name for political mileage.
”If elected, my first priority will be the development of Sopore in all aspects. Additionally, I am committed to advocating for the phased release of prisoners,” he said.
Guru criticized political parties for “misleading” people in the name of Article 370 and deceiving the youth.
“I demand the restoration of Jammu & Kashmir’s status as it was in 1987. They must stop deceiving the third generation with false narratives,” he added.
Reflecting on the 1987 election “rigging,” which he said contributed to the region’s decline, Guru noted that his father was a follower of NC founder Sheikh Abdullah.
“I am encouraged to see young people today carrying banners and engaging in the democratic process,” he said, while praising LG Manoj Sinha’s efforts to improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
He also proposed uniting all independent candidates currently contesting Assembly election under one banner, calling it ‘Tehreek-e-Awam.’ “It will be a people’s party that makes a difference. I will campaign for it openly,” he declared.
