In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the incarcerated Chairman of Tehreek-e-Muzahmat Jammu and Kashmir, Bilal Ahmed Siddiqui, has said that the Kashmiri people stand at a historic crossroads — between being treated as mere subjects under Indian occupation and being recognized as rightful citizens entitled to dignity, equality, and freedom. 

According to Kashmir Media Service, in a statement issued from Srinagar Central Jail, Bilal Ahmed Siddiquie said that for decades, Jammu and Kashmir has been ruled through force, coercion, and deception, while promises made by the international community — particularly the United Nations — remain unfulfilled. He said Kashmiris were assured the right to determine their political future, but their collective identity and aspirations have been systematically crushed. 

He said that after the revocation of Articles 370 and 35A, India reduced the people of Jammu and Kashmir from citizens with protections to subjects under direct control, imposing military domination, curbing freedom of expression and assembly, and attempting to alter the region’s demography.  Siddiquie emphasized that true citizenship is founded on rights, justice, and equality — all of which are denied to Kashmiris.

He said no government has the moral or legal authority to erase the Kashmiri people’s history, identity, or political will.  He appealed to the United Nations, international human rights defenders, and the global community to recognize the grave injustice inflicted upon Kashmiris. He reaffirmed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will continue their peaceful struggle until they are allowed to exercise their UN-recognized right to self-determination.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)