Pakistan Calls for Release of Kashmiri Prisoners in IIOJK

Pakistan: Pakistan has called for the release of all Kashmiri prisoners, human rights defenders, and civil society activists detained in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

According to Radio Pakistan, Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi expressed deep concern over the ongoing politically motivated cases against the leadership of Kashmiris, including Hurriyat leader Yasin Malik, during his weekly news briefing in Islamabad. He emphasized that India is using arbitrary detentions and sham trials to suppress legitimate Kashmiri political voices and pursue a political vendetta against the Kashmiri leadership.

The Spokesperson urged the international community, including the United States, to play a constructive role in urging India to stop human rights abuses and release all political prisoners. He highlighted that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is recognized internationally and remains on the United Nations agenda.

Tahir Andrabi reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to raising its voice for the human rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir at international forums, including the United Nations and the OIC. He urged international bodies to uphold the principle that Kashmiris should not be punished for seeking their right to self-determination.

Addressing a question on house demolitions in IIOJK, specifically against the Bakarwal community, Tahir Andrabi pointed out the violations and displacement aimed at demographic changes and control over natural resources in Jammu and Kashmir. He assured that Pakistan would address this matter at appropriate forums.

In response to a question about the Indus waters treaty disputes, Andrabi noted satisfaction with a supplemental award by the court of arbitration concerning the Ratle and Kishanganga projects. The award reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance that the treaty limits India’s water-control capabilities over the western rivers. He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its rights under the treaty and ensuring compliance through lawful mechanisms.

The Spokesperson also addressed Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, highlighting concerns over the use of Afghan territory for terrorist operations in Pakistan. He stated that relations would remain at a standstill unless Pakistan receives written assurances from the Afghan Taliban regime to prevent such activities.