The Unfolding Tragedy: Human Rights Violations in IIOJK under Indian Troops

The statistics of violence and repression in Indian IIlegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) speak volumes about the ongoing human rights violations by Indian forces, leaving a trail of death, suffering, and injustice in its wake.

The ongoing situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) continues to deteriorate under the oppressive actions of Indian troops. The figures of human rights abuses recorded over the past year offer a chilling picture of the daily struggles faced by Kashmiris in their quest for justice and dignity. From killings to custodial deaths, the actions of the Indian military have left an indelible scar on the region, highlighting a systemic pattern of repression.

The numbers for killings in IIOJK paint a grim picture of state-sponsored violence. In the year under review, there were 91 killings attributed to Indian troops, with a disturbing rise in the months of June, July, and September. June saw the highest toll, with 12 deaths, followed by 20 in July, and 17 in September. These killings are not isolated incidents but part of a larger pattern of violence targeting innocent civilians, particularly in the aftermath of military operations and crackdowns.

Custodial killings remain a persistent issue, with 37 individuals losing their lives in custody throughout the year. These deaths, which often occur under suspicious circumstances, are a grave violation of human rights. The highest number of custodial deaths occurred in the months of April and May, with five and three deaths, respectively. These tragic losses serve as a reminder of the absence of accountability in Indian-occupied Kashmir, where security forces operate with impunity.

The widespread use of torture and violence against civilians is a key feature of the Indian military’s tactics in IIOJK. In the year under review, 74 individuals were tortured or critically injured. The most severe incidents occurred in June, where 26 people were critically injured, followed by 12 in July. The systematic use of torture not only devastates the victims physically but also leaves deep psychological scars, further exacerbating the trauma already faced by the people of Kashmir.

Arrests are another tool used by the Indian forces to suppress dissent and instill fear among the population. Over the course of the year, a total of 3,710 people were arrested, with the months of February and March witnessing the highest arrests, numbering 317 and 720, respectively. These mass arrests often target activists, youth, and those suspected of supporting the resistance movement, resulting in prolonged detention without charge or trial.

In addition to the human toll, the Indian military has caused significant economic harm to the region through property destruction. Over the past year, a total of 147 properties were attached, with the worst months being May and December, where 34 and 43 properties were seized. The destruction and attachment of properties are part of a larger strategy aimed at economically crippling the Kashmiri population and undermining their ability to resist the occupation.

Women and children in IIOJK have borne a disproportionate share of the suffering inflicted by the Indian military. The statistics show that six women were widowed, while 24 children were orphaned over the course of the year. This cruelty is often compounded by the heinous act of sexual violence, with one case of gang rape and molestation recorded in June. The trauma of these acts, especially sexual violence, can have long-lasting effects on the victims and their communities, further entrenching the cycle of violence and oppression.

Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs) remain one of the most frequently used tactics in IIOJK. These operations, which involve large-scale military presence in civilian areas, result in widespread fear, harassment, and the violation of basic human rights. The number of CASOs conducted throughout the year stood at 2,307, with the highest frequency seen in January (310 operations), followed by March (140) and July (237). These operations are often conducted without regard for the safety or dignity of the local population, disrupting everyday life and intensifying the climate of fear.

The figures from IIOJK speak for themselves. The scale of violence, injustice, and human rights abuses is overwhelming. These numbers represent the lives of individuals and families torn apart by the actions of the Indian military. The lack of accountability for these violations continues to embolden the forces and perpetuate the suffering of Kashmiris.

It is essential for the international community to recognize the atrocities being committed in IIOJK and to hold India accountable for its actions. The people of IIOJK deserve justice, the restoration of their rights, and an end to the violence that has plagued their lives for decades. The world must not remain silent in the face of these grave human rights violations. Only through concerted efforts can the people of IIOJK hope for a future free from oppression and violence.