London, UK lawmakers, activists, professionals, and students convened to highlight the urgency of recognizing the right to self-determination for Kashmir and underscored the British government’s historical responsibility regarding the region.

According to a news release by Kashmir Media Service, the roundtable conference took place in the British parliament to mark 76 years since India’s occupation of Kashmir. The event, led by Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK President Fahim Kayani, revolved around discussions of the heavily militarized environment in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The session, presided over by Shadow Minister Jess Phillips, extended its unequivocal support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, as established by multiple resolutions from the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council. Notable attendees included Debbie Abraham, MP, Andrew Gwynne, MP, Kim Leadbeater, MP, among others.

Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur and Shaista Safi, both originally from IIOJK and currently in exile, shared firsthand accounts of war crimes and human rights violations committed by India in the occupied territory.

The conference spotlighted heightened human rights concerns in IIOJK, especially following actions by the Indian government in August 2019 that dissolved its special status and implemented a strict military lockdown.

Participants expressed the need for British lawmakers to urge their government to counteract India’s actions in the occupied region. Concerns were also voiced over India’s suppression of local media in IIOJK.

Among the recommendations brought forth by Fahim Kayani were appeals to the British government to encourage the United Nations to persuade India to repeal severe laws that have been used to oppress dissent in the region. Furthermore, calls were made for the release of various political prisoners and for the establishment of a commission to probe human rights infringements in Kashmir during the upcoming session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in February 2024.

Other speakers, including Mushtaq Lashari and Councillor Majid Hussain, extended their support to the people of IIOJK during the conference.