On Vajpayee’s 100th birth anniversary, J&K leaders recall their views on Kashmir issue, Pakistan relations

Senior leaders of J&K remembered former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 100th birth anniversary. File | Photo credit: PTI

Senior leaders of Jammu and Kashmir, who remembered former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 100th birth anniversary on Wednesday (December 25, 2024), reminded the BJP about the late leader’s approach to the Kashmir issue and Pakistan.

“Vajpayee crossed ideological boundaries to address the nation’s most complex challenges, particularly those faced by Jammu and Kashmir. Vajpayee’s tenure as Prime Minister was a golden period for Jammu and Kashmir, where he Philosophy of Humanity (Humanitydemocracy (The majority), and Kashmiriyat (Kashmiri sentiment) shaped his approach to solving the problems of the region,” said former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti.

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Despite his ideological background, Vajpayee G She said that Pakistan extended a hand of friendship even in times of extreme hostility by rising above partisan politics. “His belief that ‘neighborhoods cannot be changed, but relationships can be reimagined’ was a testament to his politics,” she added.

Pointing to the historic Lahore bus tour in 1999 and subsequent peace initiatives with Pakistan, Ms Mufti said Vajpayee laid the groundwork for building trust and de-escalating tensions in the subcontinent. “His courage to continue talks even after the Kargil war and several terror attacks showed his unwavering commitment to peace. Vajpayee was G“His leadership, critical understanding and advocacy of Mufti Mohammad Saeed led to historic confidence building measures in Jammu and Kashmir,” she said.

Vajpayee GHer approach reflects the pragmatic yet humane approach of leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, she said. “He believed in healing wounds, building trust and creating opportunities for dialogue. His policies provided a ray of hope for Jammu and Kashmir, showing how leadership based on empathy and vision can bring about transformative change,” said Ms. Mufti.

She said there is a need for a leader who can rise above divisive politics, instill confidence and bridge divisions in the region and subcontinent.

National Conference (NC) leader and MLA Tanveer Sadiq also paid tribute to the former prime minister. “Vajpayee sir He was a visionary leader, a brilliant orator, and a poet who championed democracy, peace and development. As Prime Minister of India, he led the nation through challenging times with wisdom and grace. His humility and ability to bridge divides continues to be an inspiration for generations. He was a friend of Jammu and Kashmir and his approach to Kashmir was based on the principles of Insaniyat, Jamhuriyat and Kashmiriyat,” he said.

Mr. Sadiq said the BJP leader launched the Agra Summit and the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service, indicating his commitment to building cross-border ties and trust.