13 Kashmiris detained during Indian police crackdown in Islamabad
Srinagar: Indian police detained 13 persons during a cordon and search operation (CASO) in Islamabad district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Police conducted the operation at 20 locations in the Waghama area of the district.
While confirming the detentions, an Indian official claimed that the 13 individuals were suspected drug peddlers and had been picked up for questioning during the coordinated operation. He further claimed the CASO was part of sustained and intelligence-based action against individuals and networks allegedly involved in drug peddling in the district.
Indian authorities frequently detain Kashmiris on various pretexts, including alleged involvement in drug peddling, as Over Ground Workers (OGWs) or as hybrid militants. More than 3,000 Kashmiris are presently languishing in jails of IIOJK and India under fabricated charges. To prolong their detention, Indian authorities often invoke draconian laws like the Public Safety Act (PSA) and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Kashmir watchers and rights observers say that such measures are meant to create an atmosphere of fear, stifle voices of dissent and terrorize people in IIOJK.
