ISLAMABAD: An eight-member high-level Kashmiri delegation, comprising prominent leaders and human rights activists, has departed for Geneva to participate in the 59th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).
The delegation is being led by Altaf Hussain Wani, Chairman of the Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR). During their visit, the delegation will engage with diplomats, UN officials, and representatives of international human rights organizations to shed light on the ongoing human rights violations allegedly committed by Indian forces in the UN-recognized disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The delegates plan to host seminars, conduct corner meetings, and participate in interactive discussions aimed at raising awareness about the deteriorating rights situation in the region. They will specifically urge international human rights watchdogs to take notice of India’s persistent violations of religious freedoms and fundamental civil liberties in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
The delegation will highlight the arbitrary application of draconian laws, including the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), and Public Safety Act (PSA). They will also address the continued detention of political leaders, extrajudicial killings of unarmed civilians, and the discovery of unmarked mass graves across parts of the Kashmir Valley.
Members of the delegation include:
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Ghulam Muhammad Safi, Convener, All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC-AJK chapter)
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Sardar Amjad Yousaf, Executive Director, KIIR
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Syed Faiz Naqshbandi
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Mrs. Shamim Shawl
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Dr. Saira Shah
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Naila Altaf Kayani
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Ms. Mehr-un-Nisa
The delegation’s advocacy is expected to draw renewed international attention to Kashmir’s humanitarian crisis, particularly amid growing calls for accountability and justice.
