Civil society urges global action over curbs on freedom of expression in IIOJK
#LetKashmirisSpeak
Srinagar: Civil society activists have strongly condemned the continued suppression of fundamental rights in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, urging the international community to allow Kashmiris to freely express their political aspirations.
According to Kashmir Media Service, in a joint statement, the activists said the regime led by Narendra Modi is using draconian measures to muzzle the Kashmiris’ voice of freedom and silence dissent in the occupied territory.
They said that all basic rights, including the right to life, the right to protest, and the right to freedom of expression, are being systematically violated in IIOJK. “Kashmiris are witnessing disgrace, humiliation, and daily harassment at the hands of Indian troops, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation,” the statement added.
The activists maintained that every Kashmiri feels suffocated under the prevailing conditions, where surveillance, restrictions, and arbitrary actions have become a routine matter. They stressed that the people of the territory have every right to speak their conscience and articulate their political future.
Reiterating their demand, the activists said Kashmiris are struggling for their internationally recognized right to self-determination, as enshrined in United Nations resolutions. “India cannot stop the Kashmiris’ march for freedom by gagging their political voices,” they asserted.
The statement further urged world powers to stop ignoring the plight of the Kashmiri people and called on the international community to pressure India to end repression and allow Kashmiris to express their will freely.
The activists emphasized that lasting peace in the region is not possible without addressing the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and ensuring their fundamental rights.
