Srinagar: The All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) has appealed to India to release all political prisoners, including its leadership, and to repeal laws it describes as repressive, in order to create an environment conducive to dialogue on the Kashmir issue.

According to Kashmir Media Service, APHC spokesman Abdul Rashid Minhas emphasized the United Nations’ recognition of Jammu and Kashmir as a disputed territory. He argued that actions taken by the BJP-led Indian government on August 5, 2019, and its subsequent policies do not change this status.

Minhas reminded India of its commitments to the United Nations, which include resolutions calling for the settlement of the Kashmir dispute through a plebiscite. He criticized the UN for its inaction on implementing these resolutions, which he claims has led to decades of suffering for the Kashmiri population.

The APHC reiterated its demand that the Indian government release detained Kashmiri leaders, revoke stringent laws, and establish a peaceful atmosphere for meaningful dialogue. “Kashmiris do not support confrontation or conflict. We yearn for peace and advocate a peaceful resolution to this prolonged issue,” Minhas stated.

The spokesman also urged the United Nations to facilitate a result-oriented dialogue between India and Pakistan, highlighting the need for international involvement to address human rights concerns in the region. The APHC stressed the importance of a just and lasting solution to the Kashmir conflict.