X- Space: Global Concerns Over India’s Atrocities in IIOJK

As the world watches India’s continuing crackdown in IIOJK, voices from across the globe are rising in condemnation, urging a reevaluation of strategies and a renewed push for Kashmir’s right to self-determination.

In an event organized by Friends of Kashmir International at X-space, speakers voiced deep concerns over the ongoing atrocities committed by India in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). This gathering took place in the wake of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the region, a visit that many activists and leaders viewed as a further attempt to cement India’s illegal control over the territory.

The discussion focused on India’s seven-decade-long repression of Kashmiri people and the forced imposition of policies designed to suppress their legitimate aspirations for freedom and self-determination. Speakers highlighted a range of ongoing abuses, from the systematic erosion of Kashmiri identity to the demographic changes being orchestrated by the Indian government in an effort to undermine the Muslim-majority status of the region.

The event brought to the forefront the dangerous rise of Hindutva policies in Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at diluting the region’s distinct cultural and religious identity. Participants discussed how India’s actions, including the settlement of non-Kashmiri populations and forced measures that contravene the religious beliefs of Kashmiri Muslims, are part of a larger, systematic assault on the fabric of Kashmiri society.

Speakers underscored that these policies are not just a violation of human rights, but an effort to permanently alter the region’s demographic and political landscape. They also condemned India’s propaganda, which seeks to portray Kashmir as a peaceful region despite the overwhelming evidence of massive human rights abuses, military crackdowns, and suppression of dissent.

Activist Naila Altaf Kiyani delivered a powerful message, saying, “Kashmiris do not want to live under Indian rule, even if New Delhi paves roads of gold there.” This statement echoed the sentiment of countless Kashmiris who continue to reject Indian rule, despite the oppressive environment they face daily.

Dr. Mubeen Shah, Director of Kashmir House Turkey, called for a period of introspection and reassessment of the strategies employed by the international community and Kashmiri activists in response to India’s atrocities. “We need to introspect and reassess how we are reacting to Indian atrocities and what should be our way forward in the future for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination,” he said, emphasizing the need for new, more effective approaches to ensure Kashmir’s rightful place in the global discourse on justice.

Ghazala Habib, Chairperson of Friends of Kashmir International, emphasized the importance of amplifying global representation to better advance the Kashmir cause. She pointed out that without stronger international advocacy, Kashmir’s struggle for freedom risks being overlooked by the broader global community.

Senior Hurriyat leader Altaf Hussain Wani praised Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmir cause and urged for continued unity and collaboration among those advocating for Kashmir’s right to self-determination. His message of solidarity resonated with the gathering, reminding everyone that the struggle is not only for Kashmiris but for global justice as well.

Journalist Azaz Syed brought a unique perspective, discussing the economic aspects of the Kashmir movement. He argued that by strengthening the region’s economic foundations, Kashmiris could gain more global attention and influence. This, he believed, could be key in advancing the movement for self-determination and freedom.

Meanwhile, Hurriyat leader Abdul Hameed Lone condemned India’s brutalities and the demonization of Kashmiris for merely demanding their right to self-determination. He called on the international community to recognize the scale of repression and to act accordingly.

Turkish activist and songwriter Turgey Evran underscored the importance of creative outlets in raising global awareness about the Kashmir cause. He shared his own work, including songs inspired by the resilience of Kashmiris, to show how art and culture can connect people to the struggles faced by Kashmiris. He expressed the belief that such creative endeavors could serve as a powerful means of resonating with international audiences and spreading the message of Kashmir’s plight.

The event concluded with Sadia Sattar, who reiterated the critical need for unity and determination in the fight for Kashmir’s just cause. She emphasized that evolving strategies, including stronger international collaboration and creative methods of outreach, will be essential to ensuring that Kashmir’s voice continues to be heard on the global stage.