Kashmiri Leaders Unite in Virginia to Address Ongoing Conflict in IIOJK

A notable gathering occurred at Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai’s home in Fairfax, Virginia, where key Kashmiri leaders met to discuss the persistent Kashmir conflict. The focus was on strategizing efforts to amplify awareness of the Kashmiri plight.

Dr. Fai, Chairman of the World Forum for Peace & Justice, expressed appreciation for the commitment shown by Kashmiri American and Pakistani American communities. He noted that the silence from global powers has emboldened Indian occupation, leading to severe human rights violations in Indian-illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Guests at the meeting included Rizwan Abbasi from ABN Television and Atiq Ahmed Sadazoi from SUNO Television. They commended the Kashmiri American community’s initiative to protest during the Indian delegate’s speech at the UN General Assembly on September 28.

Dr. Fai raised alarms over the issuance of over 4.3 million Domicile Certificates, which he argued would significantly alter Kashmir’s demographics. He highlighted that more than 2.5 million non-Kashmiris could become eligible voters, further threatening local identities.

He condemned the confiscation of Kashmiri lands and properties, warning that such actions could push IIOJK toward genocide. The gathering expressed deep concern over the imprisonment of prominent Kashmiri leaders like Masarrat Aalam Butt, Mohammad Yasin Malik, and Shabir Ahmed Shah.

The leaders pledged to increase awareness of these injustices through Pakistani media channels. They emphasized that the Kashmir issue is a cornerstone of Pakistani foreign policy and called for all political parties to address human rights abuses in the region proactively.

Dr. Fai reiterated the United Nations Security Council’s position, asserting that the resolution of the Kashmir issue must reflect the will of the people through a free and impartial plebiscite under UN oversight. This highlights the international community’s role in the ongoing conflict.

In a show of solidarity with those in IIOJK, the group plans to convene at the UN headquarters in New York on September 28. This gathering aims to further raise awareness and advocate for the rights of Kashmiris on a global platform.

The meeting underscores the urgent need for international attention on the Kashmir conflict. With the growing number of displaced Kashmiris and the ongoing violations, the leaders’ efforts are vital for keeping the issue in public discourse.

As the group prepares for their UN assembly, their commitment reflects a broader struggle for justice and recognition of the Kashmiris’ plight. The meeting marks a significant step in mobilizing support and fostering dialogue on this critical issue.