Legal dimensions of Kashmir dispute discussed at Muzaffarabad workshop
Muzaffarabad: The Kashmir Policy Research Institute (KPRI) organized the first workshop of its “Youth Dialogue Program” as part of the Kashmir Conflict series in Muzaffarabad.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the workshop brought together youth leaders and students to discuss the complex dimensions of the Kashmir dispute.
Justice (R) Manzoor Hussain Gilani, Altaf Hussain Wani, Chairman of the Kashmir Institute of International Relations, and Dr. Raja Muhammad Sajad Khan, Director of KPRI, delivered lectures on various aspects of the conflict, followed by a Q&A session with the participants.
Justice Gilani discussed the legal dimensions of the Kashmir issue, emphasizing that the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India was not legally valid. He argued that the legal agreement between the British government and princely states had expired on August 15, 1947, invalidating the Instrument of Accession. He also noted that both Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan had fought for their freedom, with the support of tribal forces and Pakistan’s army. He criticized India’s efforts to undermine UN resolutions and their inconsistent approach to the Kashmir issue.
Altaf Hussain Wani highlighted the ongoing human rights violations in Indian occupied Kashmir, stressing the need for a research-driven approach to expose the historical and current injustices faced by Kashmiris. He urged the youth to bring these violations to light through investigation and global advocacy.
Dr. Raja Sajad Khan discussed the impact of misinformation on global political and economic issues. He emphasized that peace and development are impossible without truth, and urged the youth to recognize the difference between propaganda and facts, especially concerning the Kashmir issue.
The workshop concluded with the distribution of certificates to participants by Altaf Hussain Wani, underscoring the importance of youth engagement in policy-making and the Kashmir movement.
