Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Calls for Release of Political Detainees in IIOJK Amid Health Concerns

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has voiced his concern over the deteriorating health of political detainees in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), urging the release of all such prisoners, including political leaders and activists.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, has expressed alarm over the deteriorating health of Engineer Rasheed, a member of the Indian parliament and head of the Awami Ittehad Party. Rasheed has reportedly been transferred to a hospital due to his critical health condition.

In a recent post on X, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq shared his concern, stating, “Concerned by media reports of deteriorating health of Engineer Rasheed, now shifted to hospital. Also the news report that Tihar jail authorities have arbitrarily withdrawn phone calls and e-mulaqat facilities (video call) to political prisoners in custody of Indian National Investigation Agency, is very distressing.”

Mirwaiz also raised alarms about the well-being of other political detainees, particularly the elderly, in Indian jails. “Reports of health conditions of many political prisoners, especially the elderly in jails, is a matter that worries not just their families but all people,” he added, stressing that the harsh treatment of Kashmiris under Indian custody is a dangerous approach.

The Mirwaiz called on the Indian government to release all political prisoners, including leaders, activists, lawyers, civil society members, media personnel, and youth. He further emphasized that, even while incarcerated, the rights of these prisoners must be respected and restored in accordance with the law.