Tanvir Sadiq leads protest, expresses solidarity with Iran

Jammu, Mar 27: National Conference (NC) chief spokesman and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq on Friday led a protest both inside and outside the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, expressing solidarity with the people of Iran amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia.

Wearing black bands on his head and right arm inscribed with the name of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and holding his photograph, he termed the killing of the Iranian Supreme Leader as “deeply condemnable,” saying it had evoked strong emotions among Muslims across the world.

Speaking to reporters on the Assembly premises, Sadiq said that Khamenei was “not merely a political figure but a deeply revered religious leader,” whose influence extended far beyond Iran.  “We stand in solidarity with Iran. The entire NC and the J&K government stand together,” he said, adding that he had moved a calling attention motion in the House seeking a discussion on the issue.

Sadiq said the situation in West Asia had once again underscored the fragility of regional peace and warned that escalating tensions could have far-reaching humanitarian consequences.

“No country has the right to attack another. Such actions violate the basic principles of justice, sovereignty, and humanity,” he said. Calling for a united response, the NC leader urged members across party lines to rise above political differences.

“The Assembly must speak in one voice and express solidarity with the people of Iran during this difficult time,” he said.

Sadiq also highlighted what he described as an outpouring of humanitarian support from Kashmir, claiming that people from across the Valley “from children to the elderly” had contributed funds for relief efforts in Iran. “This reflects the deep-rooted sense of compassion and solidarity among our people,” he said.

Amid reports of detentions linked to protests and expressions of grief, Sadiq strongly appealed for the immediate release of those held.  “Grief cannot be criminalised. Peaceful expression must be respected in a democratic setup,” he said.