Srinagar: Since the controversial abrogation of Article 370, Indian authorities have been imposing restrictions on the movement of Muslims in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), limiting their fundamental rights and freedoms.
According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, following the abrogation on August 05, 2019, Indian law enforcement agencies began confiscating passports of individuals alleged to have links with the Kashmir freedom movement. For nearly five years, these individuals were denied passports based on accusations of their involvement in the indigenous freedom struggle.
Under mounting public pressure, the Indian government has recently begun reviewing its travel policies for Muslims in IIOJK. In a notable development, the government started issuing passports to residents of the region after a five-year interruption. However, many of these passports carried a restriction: ‘Valid for all countries except Pakistan.’
This restriction is part of a broader strategy directed by the Indian Home Minister to limit connections between Kashmiri Muslims and Pakistan. While the Indian government argues that these measures are essential for national security, the travel ban to Pakistan is seen as an infringement on the rights of Kashmiri Muslims, curtailing their freedom of movement.
Human rights activists argue that these travel restrictions not only breach international human rights law but also demonstrate a pattern of violations against Muslims in IIOJK. Such measures undermine the freedom and autonomy of the region’s Muslim population.
Students from IIOJK are particularly affected, as the restrictions hinder their access to educational opportunities in Pakistan, impacting their academic prospects. Similarly, Kashmiri journalists face travel bans, preventing them from attending international events.
Political experts view these restrictions as part of a broader pattern of human rights violations following the abrogation of Article 370. The Indian government has introduced policies that limit the basic rights of Kashmiris, including political representation and dissent.
Rights activists express concern that the Indian government is promoting the settlement of non-Kashmiri populations to alter the demographic identity of the Muslim-majority region.
The suppression of civil liberties, including targeting journalists and political leaders, reflects an exploitation of democratic institutions to control the disputed territory. These actions contravene international laws and undermine democratic principles, marginalizing the residents of IIOJK.
The travel bans and ongoing restrictions highlight the Indian government’s efforts to suppress dissent and control the population of IIOJK, raising concerns about systematic oppression under Indian rule.