Srinagar: During the month of June, Indian security forces are reported to have killed twelve Kashmiris in what are described as acts of state terrorism in the region of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Kashmir Media Service, among the deceased, five youths were allegedly killed in what are claimed to be fake encounters or while in custody. The report details further allegations of human rights abuses, including the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters leading to at least twenty-six injuries. Additionally, it is reported that during approximately 196 cordon and search operations conducted in June, around 570 civilians, predominantly youths and political activists such as the notable lawyer and former head of the Kashmir Bar Association, Mian Abdul Qayoom, were detained under stringent laws including the Public Safety Act (PSA) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The report also criticizes the Modi administration for restricting religious freedoms, specifically noting that Kashmiris were prevented from offering Eidul Azha prayers at prominent locations in Srinagar such as the historical Jamia Masjid and Eidgah. Other accusations include property damage, with two houses reported as damaged, and an allegation of molestation involving a woman.
Furthermore, Advocate Abdul Rashid Minhas, a spokesman for the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, in a statement from Srinagar, highlighted the ongoing severe human rights issues and the worsening situation following the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019. He condemned the use of draconian measures by the BJP-led Indian government, which he claims aims to suppress the Kashmiri political struggle and terrorize the local population. He called for international intervention, describing the heavy military presence in the region as making it the most militarized zone in the world and necessitating urgent global attention.