GENEVA – The United Nations Human Rights chief said on Monday that she was ‘deeply concerned’ about the impact of recent actions by the Indian government on the human rights of Kashmiris.
In her introductory address for the start of the Human Rights Council’s latest session, Michelle Bachelet called on India ‘particularly’ to ease the current lockdowns or curfews.
‘In relation to Kashmir, my Office continues to receive reports on the human rights situation on both sides of the line of control. I am deeply concerned about the impact of recent actions by the Government of India on the human rights of Kashmiris, including restrictions on internet communications and peaceful assembly, and the detention of local political leaders and activists,’ Bachelet said.
‘While I continue to urge the Governments of India and Pakistan to ensure that human rights are respected and protected, I have appealed particularly to India to ease the current lockdowns or curfews; to ensure people’s access to basic services; and that all due process rights are respected for those who have been detained,’ Bachelet added.
The official said it is important that the ‘people of Kashmir are consulted and engaged in any decision-making processes’ that have an impact on their future.
The UN rights chief also expressed concerns about the verification process in India which excluded 1.9 million people from the final list.
“The recent National Register of Citizens verification process in the northeast Indian state of Assam has caused great uncertainty and anxiety, with some 1.9 million people excluded from the final list published on 31 August. I appeal to the Government to ensure due process during the appeals process, prevent deportation or detention, and ensure people are protected from statelessness,” she said.
The 42nd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council is underway in Geneva and Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is expected to address the session and present the case of Kashmiris before the delegates attending the forum from across the world.
Qureshi plans on informing the international community about the unilateral actions taken by India in occupied Kashmir and highlight the resultant threat posed to the region.
The Kashmir crisis took the center stage of Pakistan’s foreign policy after India revoked the special status granted to the valley on August 5 through a rushed presidential decree.
An indefinite curfew was imposed in the serene valley and elected leaders were put under house arrest, amid global calls to restore the situation in the valley.
Prime Minister Imran Khan would also be heading to the US to attend the annual session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27th and advocate the case of Kashmir.
