India’s War on Kashmiri Voices: Mian Qayoom’s Property Seizure as a Symbol of Oppression

India’s ongoing oppression in Jammu and Kashmir under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has escalated with the seizure of Mian Abdul Qayoom’s property. Qayoom, a well-known Kashmiri lawyer and former president of the High Court Bar Association, has been targeted by Indian authorities for his outspoken stance against the Indian occupation of Kashmir. This act of confiscating his property is part of a larger pattern of repression aimed at silencing Kashmiris who challenge the status quo.

Modi’s Repressive Tactics: Silencing Voices of Dissent

Under the Modi government, the use of repressive tactics against Kashmiris has become more systematic. The Indian government’s consistent use of politically motivated actions, such as the seizure of Mian Qayoom’s property, is designed to silence Kashmir’s prominent voices. This policy continues to stifle opposition and punishes those who speak out for Kashmiri rights.

♦ Targeting Prominent Leaders:
By targeting Qayoom, a respected lawyer, the Indian government aims to send a message to others who oppose its actions in Kashmir.
♦ Use of UAPA to Harass Critics:
The use of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against Qayoom is a clear attempt to suppress his legal and political activities.
♦ Crackdown on Dissent:
The government’s approach to dissent has become increasingly harsh, with critics facing arrests, property seizures, and other forms of repression.

The Seizure of Mian Qayoom’s Property: A Political Act

The recent raid on Mian Qayoom’s residence in Srinagar and the subsequent seizure of his property highlight the ongoing repression in Kashmir. The authorities claim the action was linked to a 2009 case, but the timing of the property seizure and the charges appear to be politically motivated. This incident is a continuation of the Indian government’s campaign to punish and intimidate those who advocate for Kashmiri independence.

♦ Fabricated Allegations Against Qayoom:
The claims that incriminating material was found at Qayoom’s property are seen as false and part of India’s effort to criminalize political dissent.
♦ Political Motivation Behind Property Seizure:
The timing of the seizure and the charges against Qayoom indicate that this is a politically driven attack designed to silence him.
♦ Legal Framework Used for Repression:
The UAPA is frequently misused to target Kashmiri leaders and activists without due process or evidence.

India’s Disregard for Justice and Human Rights

The actions of the Indian government in Kashmir, including the unlawful seizure of property and imprisonment of Kashmiri leaders, show a blatant disregard for justice and human rights. The legal systems in Kashmir are being manipulated to oppress voices that challenge Indian control, with little regard for international standards of fairness. This undermines the rule of law and adds to the suffering of Kashmiris.

♦ Systematic Human Rights Violations:
India’s policies in Kashmir violate international human rights standards, including the right to a fair trial and protection from arbitrary detention.
♦ Lack of Accountability for Actions in Kashmir:
Indian authorities face no real accountability for their violations, with the international community largely silent on the issue.
♦ Growing Human Rights Concerns:
The situation in Kashmir remains a serious human rights issue, with little attention given to the plight of its people by the international community.

The Political Motive Behind the Seizure: Suppressing Kashmiri Resistance

The seizure of Mian Qayoom’s property is part of a broader effort by India to suppress any form of political resistance in Kashmir. The Indian government continues to use legal and extrajudicial means to punish Kashmiris who resist Indian rule. Mian Qayoom, a prominent figure in the Kashmiri legal community, has long been a critic of Indian policies in the region, and his persecution reflects the Indian state’s efforts to crush dissent.

♦ Criminalizing Political Opposition:
Mian Qayoom’s case shows how India is using the legal system to criminalize political opposition in Kashmir.
♦ Ongoing Efforts to Crush Resistance:
India’s actions against prominent Kashmiri leaders like Qayoom are aimed at stifling any resistance to its control over Kashmir.
♦ Harassment of Key Figures:
By targeting figures like Qayoom, India hopes to send a message to other Kashmiri leaders about the consequences of opposing the state.

India’s Global Image: Tarnished by Kashmir’s Oppression

India’s treatment of Kashmiris, including the seizure of Mian Qayoom’s property, continues to draw international criticism. The Modi government’s repressive policies in the region are damaging India’s image on the global stage. As the world becomes more aware of the human rights violations taking place in Kashmir, India’s reputation is being severely tarnished.

♦ International Criticism of India’s Actions:
Human rights organizations and foreign governments are increasingly vocal in their condemnation of India’s actions in Kashmir.
♦ Undermining India’s Global Reputation:
India’s continued repression of Kashmiris is eroding its standing in the international community.
♦ Lack of Global Accountability:
Despite widespread international concern, India faces little pressure to change its policies in Kashmir.

The Continuing Struggle for Kashmiri Freedom

Despite the harsh actions of the Indian government, Kashmiris continue to resist. Mian Qayoom’s imprisonment and the seizure of his property are part of a larger struggle for freedom and justice in the region. The people of Kashmir continue to call for their rights, even as they face ongoing repression.

♦ The Resilience of Kashmiri Voices:
Kashmiris continue to resist India’s oppression, despite facing constant threats and repression.
♦ The Fight for Kashmiri Rights:
Kashmiris are fighting for their right to self-determination, and their struggle remains ongoing.
♦ International Support for Kashmiri Freedom:
Kashmiris need stronger international support in their fight for justice and freedom from Indian occupation.

Conclusion: India’s Continued Oppression in Kashmir

The seizure of Mian Qayoom’s property highlights the Indian government’s ongoing repression in Jammu and Kashmir. India’s use of the UAPA and other repressive measures to target prominent Kashmiris is part of a broader strategy to silence resistance and suppress the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination. The international community must hold India accountable for its actions in Kashmir, and the people of Kashmir must continue to resist the oppressive regime that seeks to deny them their rights.