Questions authorities’ action
SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has lauded the initiative taken by Lal Chowk traders in installing a signboard urging visitors to respect local culture, avoid alcohol and drugs, and maintain cleanliness.
He said that such civic efforts are crucial and should be emulated by others, particularly those in the hotel and tourism industry, as these sectors often provide avenues for the spread of such vices.
Mirwaiz stressed that people must actively participate in preserving the moral and cultural ethos of their society while also working towards environmental conservation.
However, he expressed surprise and disappointment over the authorities’ decision to seize the signboard, raising concerns about the motive behind the move. Referring to a post on X questioning this action, Mirwaiz Farooq asserted that people have the right to advocate for ethical and responsible behavior, both among community members and visitors.
He urged authorities to support such civic initiatives, especially while they continue their crackdown on drug addiction in Jammu and Kashmir. Instead of suppressing these efforts, he said, authorities should encourage actions that contribute to the community’s well-being and the preservation of its values.