Seminar in Karachi Highlights Militarization and Environmental Crisis in IIOJK

A seminar in Karachi has drawn attention to the worsening situation in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), with speakers condemning the increasing militarization and its devastating environmental effects.

A recent seminar in Karachi condemned the ongoing illegal Indian occupation of Jammu and Kashmir, shedding light on the escalating militarization and severe environmental challenges faced by the region. The event, titled “Militarization and Environmental Challenges in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir”, was organized by Iqra University in collaboration with the All Parties Hurriyat Conference Azad Jammu and Kashmir (APHC-AJK) chapter. It saw active participation from students, faculty members, and academic staff.

During the seminar, speakers addressed the dire situation in IIOJK, highlighting how the increasing presence of Indian troops continues to subject Kashmiris to immense suffering. They expressed grave concern over the environmental consequences of militarization, noting issues like deforestation, pollution, and the destruction of vital natural resources in the region.

Ghulam Muhammad Safi, the Convener of APHC-AJK, reiterated Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s statement that “Kashmir is the jugular vein of Pakistan,” and thanked Pakistan for its steadfast political, moral, and diplomatic support for Kashmir’s struggle.

Altaf Hussain Wani, Chairman of the Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR), paid tribute to the resilience of Kashmiris in the face of adversity. He highlighted that the presence of over a million Indian occupation forces has contributed significantly to the environmental degradation of the region, including the alarming melting of glaciers.

Advocate Parvez Shah, Secretary General of APHC-AJK, reminded the audience that Kashmiris have deep affection for Pakistan, referencing their popular slogan “Ham Pakistani Hain, Pakistan Hamara Hai.” He urged students to actively advocate for Kashmir’s cause, utilizing all available platforms to become the voice of the oppressed.

Dr. Huma Riaz Dar, who migrated from IIOJK to Azad Jammu and Kashmir due to the ongoing atrocities, shared her personal experience. She expressed gratitude to Pakistan for its unwavering support and for providing opportunities to Kashmiri students, allowing her to pursue a medical career.

Dr. Naseem Ikram, Vice Chancellor of Iqra University, thanked the APHC-AJK delegation for their informative session and emphasized the deep bond between Pakistan and Kashmir. He encouraged students to play a key role in raising awareness about Kashmir’s plight at the international level.

Following the seminar, the Hurriyat delegation visited the office of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Pakistan, where they briefed party leaders about the latest developments in IIOJK. MQM leaders, including Nasreen Jalil, Irshad Zafar, Syed Shakeel, and Najm Mirza, were present at the meeting.