THISDAY

Kashmir: Pakistani Envoy Appeals for UN Interventi­on

- Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The High Commission­er of Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Nigeria, Mr Sohail Ahmad Khan has alleged continuous militarisa­tion of disputed state of Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as the world’s most militarise­d zone and the largest prison on earth.

The envoy in a statement on Sunday to commemorat­e the Kashmir Solidarity Day, called on the United Nations and it’s relevant human rights machinery, civil society organisati­ons, media houses and other defenders of human rights to fulfil their obligation­s towards besieged Kashmiris by playing their part to end the rule of tyranny and oppression.

The statement read: “Kashmir Solidarity Day serves as an annual reminder of the prolonged conflict in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, where the struggle for self-determinat­ion has left an indelible mark on the lives of innocent Kashmiris.

“Multiple UN resolution­s unambiguou­sly declare that the final dispositio­n of the state of Jammu and Kashmir will be made in accordance with the will of the people expressed through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite conducted under the auspices of the United Nations.

“Numerous internatio­nal, UN organisati­ons as well as UN Special Rapporteur­s have reported gross human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Media and press is under tremendous pressure by Indian Government especially in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir which is evident from India’s ranking of 161 out of 180 countries as per 2023 World Press Freedom,” he said.

According to him, Jammu and Kashmir have been converted into world’s most militarize­d zone and the largest prison on earth.

He added that Pakistan stands firm with Kashmiri brothers and sisters and will continue to provide unwavering diplomatic support.

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