ISIS an un-Islamic group, says Hurriyat chief Geelani

Hardline Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Geelani on Sunday described Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and Boko Haram-like organisations as un-Islamic.

"The actions and course of action of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, ISIS and Boko Haram like organisations are totally un-Islamic. The best character and moral principles of Islam has conquered the hearts and minds of the people in the past and even today this message of guidance can reach to the people of the world with extreme love and affection," said Geelani in Srinagar.

The 84-year-old separatist leader on Sunday organised a seminar on the holy Quran at his Srinagar residence and was attended by a number of religious and social groups.

Geelani's stand on ISIS comes amidst spotting of ISIS flags during separatist protests, particularly in the old city. On last Friday, protesters unfurled flags of Islamic State of Kashmir resembling ISIS flags in the old city after the prayers.

Geelani, however, termed the ISIS-type groups as "a plot hatched by the West". "Actually very powerful minds like America, Israel, and other anti-Islam forces are working behind these organisations. Only purpose is to eliminate the Muslims within and divide them in very small states. These plots and plans are made somewhere else but our immature mindset is used to implement these plans," alleged Geelani.

On Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, Geelani said, "Pakistan is an Islamic republic and its constitution is Islam. There is no justification for any rebellion movement inside this country and those people who become the subjects in destabilising this state are committing an un-Islamic act."

Expressing concern over growing divide within Muslim sects, Geelani said, "We are all Muslims and our identity is only Islam. Shia is as Muslim as Sunni and no power of the world can detach them from Islam. Those people who talk about the differences and disunity are the real enemies of Islam."

Without naming Sajad Ghani Lone, who recently advocated political space for RSS in Kashmir, Geelani said, "I am surprised to see advocates of the RSS in Kashmir. It is a fascist organisation which wants to make India a Hindu state and wants to make it a nonresidential place for the people related to other faiths particularly Muslims".

Meanwhile, Geelani accused the authorities of curtailing his movement by placing him under house arrest. "The remarks of director general of police that 'Geelani is a free man and he can go out for prayers' are Himalayan lies and ridiculous," alleged Geelani.

Geelani is planning to offer next Friday prayers in south Kashmir's Anantnag district. It will be his first rally since May 1 when he addressed a public rally in south Kashmir's Tral area. However, he was placed under house arrest immediately after Pakistan flags were unfurled in the rally.