Islamabad, March 4: ( ) Kashmiri leader Altaf Ahmed Bhat, extends his warm congratulations to Mian Shehbaz Sharif on his assumption of the esteemed position of Prime Minister. In his felicitation, Bhat expresses a profound hope that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, the longstanding Kashmir issue will be addressed with a pragmatic approach, ultimately leading to its just and conclusive resolution. Bhat emphasizes the critical significance of Pakistan’s role in advocating for the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people, underscoring the need for resolute action in the face of ongoing challenges.
Furthermore, Bhat brings attention to the distressing human rights situation prevailing in Kashmir, particularly exacerbated since the illegal revocation of its special status by the Narendra Modi-led Indian government in August 2019.
Bhat mentioned that since 5th Aug 2019 Indian Occupational Forces were left unchecked and these 5 years paint a stark picture of the atrocities committed by Indian forces against innocent Kashmiris. A staggering toll of 857 Kashmiris martyred, including 28 young boys. Among the deceased are revered leaders such as Syed Ali Gilani and Muhammad Ashraf Sehrai, whose untimely deaths in Indian custody have sent shockwaves across the region.
In addition to the loss of precious lives, over 2,400 individuals have sustained critical injuries due to the excessive use of force, leaving behind a trail of widows, orphans, and shattered families. The desecration of homes and properties, with more than 1,100 structures damaged, further compounds the suffering endured by Kashmiri families. Moreover, the systematic targeting of women, with 133 cases of molestation and disgrace perpetrated by Indian forces, adding to the anguish of the Kashmiri populace.
In the face of such egregious violations, Altaf Ahmed Bhat calls upon Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to use his platform to amplify the voices of the oppressed Kashmiris. He urges Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to not only address these atrocities in his inaugural speech but also to translate words into tangible actions aimed at alleviating the suffering of Kashmiri brethren.
He further added that the hopes and aspirations of millions of Kashmiris, both within Pakistan and those living under illegal Indian occupation, rest upon the shoulders of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his administration. Kashmiris are hopeful that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during his tenure, will take practical steps on all fronts, not only within Pakistan but also on the international stage, to advocate for the freedom of Kashmir.
They look to him to champion their cause with determination and resilience, addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by Kashmiris with unwavering commitment. He added.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership is seen as pivotal in bringing global attention to the plight of Kashmiris and in mobilizing support for their legitimate right to self-determination. As Kashmiris continue to endure oppression and injustice, they place their trust in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to be their voice and advocate for justice on the global stage.
