Srinagar: The All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) has accused India of fostering a climate of fear and intimidation in the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to quell the ongoing freedom movement in the region. The organization has condemned the use of stringent laws against its members and ordinary Kashmiris, calling for international attention.
Advocate Abdul Rashid Minhas, the APHC spokesperson, stated that the Indian government is specifically targeting Hurriyat leaders through the application of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, Public Safety Act, and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). He alleged that these measures include house raids, detentions, and confiscation of properties, which are part of a broader strategy to suppress Kashmiris.
According to Minhas, recent actions by Indian authorities, including the visit of Home Minister Amit Shah, have further stoked tensions. He criticized Shah for allegedly instructing security forces to suppress the Kashmiri people’s aspirations for freedom. The spokesperson underlined that despite such measures, the spirit of resistance among Kashmiris remains undeterred.
The APHC reiterated its commitment to a peaceful struggle for self-determination, as outlined by United Nations resolutions. The spokesperson urged for dialogue involving India, Pakistan, and Kashmiri leaders to find a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
In addition, the spokesperson expressed concern over the alleged detention of thousands of Kashmiris, including prominent leaders and activists, and called on the international community to investigate human rights abuses in the region.
The APHC also voiced apprehensions regarding the Waqf Amendment Bill, alleging it as a move by the BJP and RSS to undermine the cultural identity of Muslims in India and Jammu and Kashmir.
The organization appealed to Kashmiris to remain steadfast and united in their pursuit of a peaceful resolution, while urging the global community to hold India accountable for its actions in the region.