London: As the UK heads to the polls today, the Kashmir issue has emerged as a significant point of discussion among candidates, with multiple pledges to support Kashmiri self-determination.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Marco Longhi, a Conservative candidate from Dudley, has been particularly vocal, reflecting his constituency’s significant Pakistani and Kashmiri populations. Longhi, who is also a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Kashmir, reiterated his commitment to advocating for Kashmiri rights in Parliament. “I will continue to raise my voice for Kashmir in Parliament and will stand up for Kashmiris,” he affirmed in a recent letter to constituents.
This commitment has won Longhi the support of Fahim Kayani, leader of Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK, who praised Longhi’s ongoing efforts to highlight human rights issues in Kashmir. However, Longhi’s stance has faced criticism from Hindutva supporters, which Kayani has staunchly rebuked. “We reject claims that Longhi’s statement is divisive. We thank him for calling out Indian government atrocities in Kashmir and share his concerns about Narendra Modi’s re-election,” said Kayani.
Meanwhile, Kashmiri groups in Dudley have criticized Labour candidate Sonia Kumar for her lack of a clear position on Kashmir, noting her refusal to sign the Kashmir declaration, which calls for the support of the UN resolution on Kashmiri self-determination and the release of political prisoners.
Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK has expressed gratitude towards Longhi for his support and has urged voters to back candidates who favor pro-Kashmir policies, irrespective of their party affiliation.