Statement on the Situation in Pakistan-Administered Jammu and Kashmir

The Kashmir Global Council expresses its deep concern regarding the recent developments in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir and calls upon all stakeholders to exercise restraint, maintain calm, and pursue peaceful and democratic solutions to the issues currently confronting the region.

KGC strongly condemns any excessive or violent use of force to suppress legitimate social, economic, and political grievances. The right of citizens to peacefully assemble, express their views, and advocate for their rights is a fundamental democratic principle that must be protected and respected.

At the same time, KGC urges the Awami Action Committee to ensure that its campaign remains peaceful and constructive and does not politicize the broader issue of Jammu and Kashmir. The question of Jammu and Kashmir is a matter that encompasses all regions of the former State and should not be narrowed to local political disputes. The wider aspirations and interests of the people of the entire region must remain paramount.

KGC further notes that regional instability may be exploited by external actors seeking to deepen divisions and fuel unrest. Therefore, all parties must act responsibly and avoid actions or rhetoric that could aggravate tensions or undermine the legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

In the spirit of democratic engagement and political inclusion, KGC calls upon the authorities in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir to immediately review and lift the ban imposed on the Awami Action Committee. Democratic societies are strengthened, not weakened, when peaceful movements are permitted to pursue their demands through lawful and non-violent means.
KGC also encourages the Awami Action Committee and the relevant authorities to continue dialogue and negotiations on the Committee’s 38-point agenda. Constructive engagement remains the most effective path towards addressing public concerns and achieving sustainable solutions. Furthermore, KGC encourages all democratic actors to consider participation in the electoral process as an avenue for advancing public demands and strengthening democratic governance.

The Kashmir Global Council reiterates the importance of free, fair, transparent, and credible elections. Electoral processes must be conducted without coercion, intimidation, manipulation, or allegations of rigging. Public confidence in democratic institutions depends upon the integrity of the electoral system and equal opportunities for all political participants.

KGC also renews its call for the full implementation of the recommendations contained in the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHRC) reports on Kashmir published in 2018 and 2019. We urge India and Pakistan to allow and provide unhindered access to relevant UN human rights mechanisms, as envisaged in those reports. Transparency and accountability are essential to the protection and promotion of human rights throughout Jammu and Kashmir.

Finally, KGC stresses that developments in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir must not be allowed to undermine the broader struggle for the rights, dignity, and self-determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, including those living in Indian-administered Kashmir. Unity of purpose, democratic engagement, respect for human rights, and peaceful political participation remain essential to advancing a just and durable resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

The Kashmir Global Council appeals to all parties to act with wisdom, restraint, and responsibility in the interests of peace, stability, democratic governance, and the welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

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