Srinagar: Representatives from Kashmir’s civil society have issued a strong plea to the Indian government, demanding the cessation of what they describe as oppressive policies in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and the immediate release of all political prisoners, including Hurriyat leaders.

According to Kashmir Media Service, at a recent gathering in Srinagar, prominent members including Dr. Zubair Ahmed, Muhammad Furhan, Muhammad Iqbal Shaheen, and Syed Haider Hussain voiced the need for the restoration of Articles 370 and 35-A, which had granted special status to the region until their abrogation on August 5, 2019. The group called for an end to the violence inflicted upon the local population and stressed the importance of resolving the Kashmir issue in accordance with United Nations resolutions.

The speakers highlighted the intensification of military and police operations, involving arrests and harassment of Kashmiri youths under severe laws, aimed at quelling their aspirations for self-determination. They argued that such measures have only solidified the resolve of the Kashmiri people, particularly the youth, who remain committed to their cause despite the risks.

The civil society leaders also appealed to the international community and the United Nations to intervene, urging them to hold India accountable for alleged human rights violations and to support the Kashmiri struggle for justice and self-determination.