The speakers stressed upon the need to develop a unified narrative on Kashmir issue saying media can play vital role to highlight the Kashmir cause.
A seminar was organised in connection with the Kashmir Solidarity Day at Riphah Institute of Media Sciences (RIPHAH International University) which was addressed by eminent scholars and personalities from press and electronic media. The seminar titled as “Media and Kashmir Dispute: Challenges and Way Forward”.
The panellists deliberated on contemporary issues like post US President Obama visit to India, Indian design to change the demography of Kashmir, post election scenario in Kashmir and the right to self-determination said that in view of the rapidly changing global scenario the role of media has become vital to promote the humanitarian dimension of Kashmir issue.
For a peaceful settlement the panellists opined that bilateralism had miserably failed to settle the Kashmir and there was a need to have tripartite talks to find out an amicable and lasting solution to the Kashmir tangle.
Dr Muhammad Khan of National Defense University highlighted that media should positively strengthen the relationship between Kashmiris and Pakistanis adding that Kashmir has to be the primary focus of Pakistani media.
Dr Naveed Iqbal said that this issue could not be settled bilaterally, therefore, regional organizations must also intervene for resolution of this issue.
Dr Zafar Iqbal noted that Indian cultural onslaught needs to be countered methodically and consistently by Pakistani media; state-owned and private both.
Muzzamil Thakur observed that narrative in Pakistan should change for the good. “Kashmir issue is not a bilateral issue between the two countries. Basically, it’s a question of fundamental rights and of morality. We must voice for hundreds of thousands of orphans, young widows and innocent civilians facing brutalities,” he said.
The speakers maintained that Pakistani media should take the responsibility to project Kashmir issue at regional and international levels.
Highlighting the role of media, they observed that there was a dire need to have insightful discussions on various challenges and opportunities with regard to media and Kashmir. They also expressed complete solidarity with the people of Kashmir and lauded the sacrifices rendered by Kashmiri nation.
They said that right to self-determination was Kashmiris inalienable right and demanded the international community to play its much needed role to settle the long running dispute to ensure durable peace in the region.
