Kashmiri Students Denied Right to Education Amid Ongoing Occupation: A Crisis on International Day of Education

On International Day of Education, the plight of Kashmiri students remains a harsh reminder of how political conflict disrupts access to education. Under India’s brutal occupation of IIOJK, education has become a distant dream for many students, with the ongoing militarization making it nearly impossible for them to pursue their studies.

The illegal Indian occupation of Jammu and Kashmir has devastated the region’s educational system, with the Modi regime’s tightening of military control since August 5, 2019, worsening the crisis. According to reports, the constant military presence, including frequent cordon and search operations (CASOs), raids, and strict restrictions, has severely hampered students’ ability to attend school or college regularly.

One of the biggest barriers to education in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) is the regular internet shutdowns enforced by Indian authorities. These blackouts make it nearly impossible for students to access online resources, participate in virtual classes, or even communicate with teachers. This has left many students struggling to keep up with their studies, leading to an educational crisis that only deepens with each passing day.

The daily harassment faced by Kashmiri students at the hands of Indian forces further complicates their ability to focus on education. These students endure constant humiliation and intimidation, which significantly affects their mental and emotional well-being. How can students focus on their futures when their rights and safety are compromised on a daily basis?

The discrimination faced by Kashmiri students extends beyond the borders of their homeland. Many are harassed and even expelled from educational institutions across mainland India, further limiting their opportunities. The psychological toll of such treatment is immense, with these students bearing the weight of collective punishment for the actions of their people, not their own.

As the world observes International Day of Education, it is crucial to recognize the suffering of Kashmiri students who are denied their fundamental right to education. The international community must acknowledge their struggles and work towards ending the oppression that keeps them from achieving their potential. Until then, education in IIOJK will remain a distant, unattainable goal for too many.