Muzaffarabad, A poignant event to commemorate the victims of the 1991 Kunanposhpora mass rape tragedy was held in Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The tragedy, which occurred on the night of February 23, 1991, involved Indian army officers and troops who, under the guise of conducting searches, entered homes in the Kunanposhpora village in the Kupwara district of occupied Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the gang rape of around 100 women.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the commemoration was organized by the Institute of Multi Track Dialogue Development and Diplomatic Studies at Moon Hall in Muzaffarabad. The event featured distinguished panelists, including Madam Nousheen, Vice Principal of Moon Creation; Syed Abdul Samad Advocate, Founder Director of Expert Law Associates; Madam Amal Atta Advocate, Vice Chairman of Naqvi Law Associates; and Dr. Sheikh Waleed Rasool, who offered deep insights into the atrocity and its aftermath.
The speakers discussed the horrific incident in detail, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of Kashmiris, especially in terms of women’s empowerment and their participation in the self-determination movement. The discussion also touched on the broader context of the struggle for rights and justice in the region.
Dr. Waleed Rasool provided a virtual comprehensive analysis of the Kunanposhpora incident, shedding light on its occurrence, timeline, and the broader historical context that framed this tragedy. His insights underscored the lasting impact of the event on the community and the ongoing struggle for justice.
The event also saw participation from the youth, with Ahsan Ulhaq, a student from Post Graduate College, Muzaffarabad, expressing appreciation for the discussions. He highlighted the importance of unity and perseverance in the quest for justice and equality for Kashmiris.
The commemoration concluded with a collective resolve to remember the victims of Kunanposhpora and to continue striving for a peaceful and just resolution to the issues faced by the Kashmiri people.