Islamabad: Pakistan has officially condemned the detention of Mian Abdul Qayoom, a notable Kashmiri lawyer and former President of the High Court Bar Association, by Indian authorities in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

According to Kashmir Media Service, during a weekly briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch labeled the detention as politically motivated, citing that the charges against Qayoom are fabricated and highlighting his vulnerable health due to chronic ailments and age. “The Indian authorities’ campaign to crush dissent in IIOJK remains relentless, targeting not only prominent figures like Qayoom but also thousands of other Kashmiri political prisoners, dissenters, and human rights defenders,” she stated.

Baloch called for the immediate release of Mian Abdul Qayoom and all other detained Kashmiris. She also reaffirmed Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination in line with UN Security Council resolutions.

Additionally, Baloch announced a new educational initiative for Palestinian students from Gaza, whereby Pakistan will facilitate medical education for 20-30 students in various specialties to bolster Gaza’s healthcare capabilities.