Indian Forces Accused of Killing Eight Kashmiris in April Amid Ongoing Conflict

Srinagar, Indian security forces are reported to have killed eight Kashmiris, including a young boy, during various operations in April in the region of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). This continues the long-standing conflict in the region, which has seen thousands of lives lost over the decades.

According to Kashmir Media Service, five of the eight were killed in what are claimed to be fabricated encounters or while in custody. The report also details the arrest of 205 civilians during the same period by various Indian security agencies, including the Army, Central Reserve Police Force, National Investigation Agency, and State Investigation Agency. Notable among those detained were Hurriyat leader Firdous Ahmed Shah and several political activists, youth, and students, many of whom were booked under stringent laws like the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the Public Safety Act (PSA).

The ongoing violence has resulted in the death of over 96,300 Kashmiris since January 1989, as per the same sources. The persistent conflict and the harsh measures reportedly adopted by Indian forces are said to have only strengthened the resolve of Kashmiris in their struggle for autonomy or independence.

The report calls on the international community to intervene to address the alleged injustices and to facilitate a resolution to the Kashmir dispute in accordance with United Nations resolutions.

In addition, the release highlights the continued detention of over five thousand individuals, including Hurriyat leaders, activists, clerics, journalists, and human rights defenders in various jails across India and IIOJK, pointing to a broader pattern of repression targeting dissenting voices in the region.