rki.news
Altaf Hamid Rao
MIRPUR (AJK), March 4 — During the General Debate on the High Commissioner’s update at the 61st Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Kashmiri representatives issued a unified call for urgent international action over the worsening human rights situation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Altaf Hussain Wani of the World Muslim Congress highlighted arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, and the misuse of anti-terror laws to suppress dissent. He condemned systematic surveillance and digital restrictions, urging intensified OHCHR monitoring and accountability for violations.
Sardar Amjad Yousaf Khan, representing International Action for Peace and Sustainable Development, presented alarming figures of violence since 2019, including over 1,050 killings and tens of thousands of arrests. He stressed restrictions on international access and called for a third OHCHR report to evaluate accountability gaps.
Madam Shamim Shawl, representing the International Muslim Women’s Union, focused on the gendered impact of the crisis, citing decades of sexual violence, widowhood, and mental health trauma faced by Kashmiri women. She called for a dedicated OHCHR report on violations against women and highlighted the climate of impunity.
The delegation also referenced emblematic cases, including the enforced disappearance of Parveez Shah, emphasizing the need for transparent investigations and accountability. Sheikh Abdul Mateen participated via video link.
In addition, the delegation urged the international community to actively engage with local civil society groups to ensure protection of human rights defenders and journalists in the region. They stressed that ongoing violations undermine peace and stability and called for sustained diplomatic pressure to uphold international law and the basic rights of Kashmiri citizens.
The delegation unanimously demanded unimpeded access to Jammu and Kashmir and stressed the importance of a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.