DFP voices concern over ailing Shabbir Shah’s transfer to Kot Bhalwal jail
Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party has expressed serious concern over the shifting of its chairman Shabbir Ahmad Shah to Kot Bhalwal jail, Jammu, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, saying the move comes at a time when his health condition is rapidly deteriorating.
According to Kashmir Media Service, a statement issued in Srinagar, DFP spokesman Advocate Arshad Iqbal termed the transfer a worst example of political victimisation and said the veteran Kashmiri leader was being subjected to continued political persecution despite suffering from multiple health complications.
The spokesman said Shabbir Ahmad Shah was being denied basic rights, including access to bail, proper medical treatment and adequate healthcare facilities. He added that the jailed leader continued to remain in harsh conditions without proper food and specialised medical care despite his worsening health condition.
Referring to international human rights laws and conventions related to political prisoners, the spokesman said depriving Shah of medical assistance and legal rights amounted to a serious violation of human dignity and humanitarian principles.
Advocate Arshad Iqbal also criticised the Indian authorities for disregard for judicial institutions. He said that despite court rulings in favour of Shabir Ahmad Shah and directions regarding his release, the authorities had failed to implement the orders.
Expressing grave concern over Shabbir Shah’s declining health, the spokesman said the incarcerated leader urgently required specialised treatment and proper care. He added that Shabbir Ahmad Shah also needed the support and presence of his family during this difficult period, describing the denial of family access and medical facilities as inhuman and condemnable.
The DFP spokesman urged international human rights organisations to intervene and help secure the early release of Shabbir Ahmad Shah and other Kashmiri detainees lodged in different Indian prisons.
