Kashmiri delegates participating in the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council have highlighted the abysmal human rights situation in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and called for prompt international action. According to Kashmir Media Service, in their statements, delegates Ms Shamim Shawl, Ms Mehr un Nisa, Dr Shugufta Ashraf and Dr Sajjad Khan urged the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to intensify monitoring, demand impartial scrutiny of violations, and call on India to uphold due process and ensure accountability.

They expressed concern over the intimidation of human rights defenders including Khurram Pervez and political activists, arbitrary detentions, and restrictions on freedom of expression. They noted over 3,000 Kashmiris were taken into custody by August 2026, while prisons hold 5,300 inmates against a capacity of 3,600. Citing the case of political leader Muhammad Yasin Malik, they flagged potential coercion and erosion of due process.

The delegates also condemned Indian political and administrative measures affecting Kashmir’s identity and demographic character. The delegation, headed by KIIR Chairman Altaf Hussain Wani, urged continued international scrutiny and called for protection of political prisoners and human rights defenders in IIOJK.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)