Associated Press (AP) reported the other day of tortured death of three Kashmiris while in Indian army custody in illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This gruesome incident, far from being an isolated case, sheds light on distressing reality of routine extra-judicial killings in the disputed territory. The allegations of torture, as supported by local accounts and harrowing videos circulating online, reveal the extent of human rights crisis that has gripped the region.
The latest incident underscores alarming prevalence of state terrorism in IOK, where Indian army seems to act with impunity. IIOJK has increasingly transformed into an open prison, with reports of mass incarcerations affecting various segments of the population, including imams, lawyers, journalists and ordinary citizens. The dismissals of employees from their jobs serve as another means of stifling dissent and curbing any form of opposition to Indian government’s policies in the region. India’s persistent denial of access to the UN fact-finding mission in IIOJK itself speaks volumes about blatant human rights violations taking place under Modi government. The international community must not turn a blind eye to sufferings of the Kashmiri people, who continue to face oppression and violence on a daily basis.
What is particularly distressing is apparent complicity of the Indian judiciary in supporting the repressive tactics of the Modi government. The efforts to alter demographic structure of the disputed territory through oppressive measures will only exacerbate already volatile situation. Despite these challenges, it is crucial to recognise resilience of the Kashmiri people, who remain steadfast in their demand for right to self-determination as promised by the UN Security Council resolutions. Responsibility lies with the United Nations to take a decisive stance against ongoing human rights abuses in IIOJK. The international community must unite in condemning extra-judicial killings and state-sponsored violence in IIOJK. It is time for the world to act, ensuring justice, accountability and fulfilment of promises made to the people of Kashmir.
