PRAYERS for peace and justice in Kashmir are being said in mosques across East Lancashire.
Secretary of the Lancashire Council of Mosques, Rafique Malik, today expressed his fears about the escalating hostilities between Indians and Pakistanis in the disputed Himalayan state.
He added: "There are a great number of Britons who hail from Kashmir, and East Lancashire has strong links with the state.
"Everybody is very concerned for the welfare of their families and friends, especially as both sides have nuclear capabilities.
"People living in the border areas are already moving to other parts of Kashmir, but nowhere is safe now that India is using its air force."
British Muslims are said to be among volunteers waiting to join the "holy war" but Mr Malik said diplomatic efforts would be more effective.
He added: "I don't know of anybody who has become a volunteer. Our first priority should be to ask the international community to take action.
"The situation is no different to Kosovo. It is another flashpoint which should be taken very seriously by the rest of the world."
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