Sufism bulwark against extremist ideology, need to connect with young influencers to propagate Sufism: J&K LG Manoj Sinha

Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha on Saturday said that sufism has acted as a bulwark against extremist ideology and few conflict profiteers, on behest of the neighbouring country, are attempting to radicalize the youth for their own gain.

Sinha addressed Sufi Conference “Noor-e-Sama” here at Srinagar during which he said that sufism is the most powerful force for peace and harmony in the society and the narrative has been popular in countering extremist propaganda.

"Since many centuries sufism has acted as a bulwark against extremist ideology and sufism's narrative has been popular in countering extremist propaganda," said Sinha.


The LG said that Sufi teachings are a counterforce to extremist ideology and its mystical traditions through poetry, music and other creative expressions will strengthen counter-radicalisation efforts.

"Few conflict profiteers, on behest of the neighbouring country, are attempting to radicalize the youth for their own gain," said Sinha.

The LG stressed that sufism emphasises inner purification, love, and deep relationship with the divine and the journey on this path has the potential to unite people across backgrounds.

“Sufism is the most powerful force for peace and harmony in society...It is a bond of love with the whole and a loving relationship with God. Sufism is the ultimate art of removing divisions and bringing hearts closer,” said LG.

Sinha highlighted that the ultimate aim of sufism is to foster the awakening in the society and promote compassion and interconnectedness.

“Sufism emphasises inner purification, love, and deep relationship with the divine. The journey on this path has the potential to unite people across backgrounds,” he said.

The LG also spoke on the influence of sufism in bridging social divides, and promoting peace and harmony within the communities.

"Sufi teachings completely reject any kind of violence, and discrimination. The Sufi teaching is a counterforce to extremist ideology,” he said.

The LG also recalled the invaluable contribution of saints from J&K in strengthening the bond of love, brotherhood, unity and harmony.

“I urge the people, especially the young generation to identify and isolate the divisive elements and ensure that such conflict profiteers have no place in the society,” he said.

The LG also emphasized on a multi-pronged strategy to promote sufi literature and Sufi education and make sufism popular among the youth to counter radical ideology.

"There is need to connect youth influencers with the campaign to propagate sufism and establishing a mentorship program where Sufi scholars guide young people," said Sinha.