Kashmir: A Disputed Territory Ignored by International Community

Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, Chairman of the World Forum for Peace and Justice, emphasized the urgent need for a just and viable solution to the Kashmir conflict during a virtual conference organized by Advocate Fehmi Caka of Prizren, Kosovo. Fai highlighted India’s refusal to acknowledge Kashmir as a disputed territory, insisting that it is an integral part of India and dismissing any negotiation with the people of Kashmir or with Pakistan. This stance, Fai argued, is rejected not only by the people of Kashmir but also by the international community.

Drawing parallels between Indian and Serbian ultra-nationalist rhetoric, Fai pointed out the similarity between Indian Foreign Minister Dr. Jaishankar’s assertion that “Kashmir was, is and will always be India’s integral part” and former Serbian Prime Minister Vojislav Kostunica’s declaration that “Kosovo belongs to Serbia.” Fai emphasized the shared arrogance and uncompromising stance of both Indian and Serbian leadership.

Fai expressed disappointment in India’s perpetuation of falsehoods and suppression of dissent, likening it to the propaganda techniques of Joseph Goebbels. He stressed the importance of truth in countering state-sponsored misinformation and oppression.

Focusing on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence, Fai underscored its affirmation of human dignity, cultural diversity, democracy, human rights, and good governance—principles that resonate with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. He highlighted the gross human rights violations endured by Kashmiris, including killings, brutality, torture, violence, disappearances, and sexual exploitation.

Kashmir, Fai noted, presents a unique challenge due to its geopolitical significance and the presence of three nuclear-armed countries—India, Pakistan, and China—along its borders. With an estimated 900,000 Indian military and paramilitary forces stationed in Kashmir, it remains the most densely occupied military zone in the world.

Fai urged world powers to heed the voices of the Kashmiri people and facilitate a peaceful resolution aligned with the principles of self-determination. He called for international solidarity in addressing the root cause of the Kashmir conflict and ending the prolonged suffering of its people. As Secretary General of the World Kashmir Awareness Forum, Fai continues to advocate for the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people on the global stage.