(Written By: Abdul Basit Alvi)
The Kashmir conflict remains one of the most protracted disputes in modern history, significantly shaping the geopolitical landscape of South Asia for over seven decades. As the Indian subcontinent gained independence from British rule, princely states were given the choice to join India, Pakistan, or remain independent. Kashmir, a princely state with a predominantly Muslim population ruled by Maharaja Hari Singh, became a major point of contention. Despite the Kashmiri people’s preference to join Pakistan, Maharaja Hari Singh opted for accession to India against their wishes. This disputed accession triggered the First Indo-Pakistani War over Kashmir.
A part of Kashmir, known as AJK, was liberated through joint efforts by Kashmiris, Pakistan, and tribal groups from Pakistan. The United Nations intervened and brokered a ceasefire in January 1949, establishing a Line of Control (LoC) that demarcated areas administered by India (IIOJK) and Pakistan (AJK). In the decades that followed,
Kashmir remained a persistent source of tension between India and Pakistan, marked by sporadic conflicts and periodic diplomatic efforts aimed at resolution. The special status of IIOJK within India was governed by Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted the region autonomy in internal affairs, excluding defense, foreign affairs, and communications. However, in August 2019, the Indian government revoked Article 370, sparking protests and inviting international scrutiny. Since the late 1980s,
IIOJK has experienced an insurgency driven by human rights abuses, and aspirations for self-determination. Indian security forces have faced allegations of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and arbitrary detentions. This conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced numerous families, exacerbating humanitarian challenges in the region.
Efforts to resolve the Kashmir conflict have included diplomatic initiatives by the United Nations, bilateral talks between India and Pakistan (such as the Shimla Agreement in 1972 and the Lahore Declaration in 1999), and Track II dialogues involving civil society and academic institutions. However, sustained peace remains elusive, with periodic escalations in violence and diplomatic tensions impacting regional stability.
IIOJK remains heavily militarized, with periodic restrictions on communication and movement imposed. India maintains IIOJK as an integral part of its territory, while Pakistan advocates for the right to self-determination for Kashmiris. The conflict continues to affect millions, prompting global calls for dialogue, respect for human rights, and a peaceful resolution.
Numerous international human rights organizations, alongside local and international media outlets, have reported allegations of atrocities committed by Indian security forces in IIOJK. Reports indicate that security forces have been involved in extrajudicial killings of civilians and suspected militants under the guise of counterinsurgency operations. There are widespread allegations of torture and arbitrary detentions, with individuals reportedly subjected to physical and psychological abuse while in custody.
Frequent internet shutdowns and curfews have severely restricted freedom of movement and communication in Kashmir. Journalists and activists have faced intimidation and harassment for reporting on sensitive issues. The use of pellet guns by security forces during protests has resulted in severe injuries, including permanent blindness, among civilians, including children. Reports also document cases of enforced disappearances, where individuals have been detained without acknowledgment of their whereabouts or legal status. Forced displacements due to conflict and security operations have further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis.
Allegations of atrocities in IIOJK have prompted international condemnation and scrutiny. Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have extensively documented and reported on these violations, urging for accountability and justice. The United Nations has also expressed concerns about the situation and called for dialogue and respect for human rights. The human rights situation worsened following the abrogation of Article 370.
August 5, 2019, marks a significant and contentious milestone in the history of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). On this date, the Government of India undertook a controversial and far-reaching action that has had profound repercussions both domestically and internationally. Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the government made the historic decision to abrogate Article 370 and Article 35A of the Indian Constitution. The decision effectively annulled the special status previously granted to Jammu and Kashmir and divided the state into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Globally, this move has been condemned as unconstitutional, undemocratic, and a violation of the rights and aspirations of the people of IIOJK.
Following August 5, 2019, Kashmir faced a severe crackdown on dissent and civil liberties. The region underwent a communications blackout, accompanied by restrictions on movement and a significant deployment of security forces. Reports surfaced detailing arrests, detentions, and alleged human rights abuses, including arbitrary detentions, torture, and constraints on freedom of expression.
The international community responded with concern and criticism regarding the situation in Kashmir post-August 5, 2019. The United Nations and various human rights organizations called for restraint, dialogue, and respect for human rights. Pakistan strongly opposed India’s actions, reducing diplomatic relations and raising the issue on international platforms.
Kashmir remains heavily militarized, with periodic internet shutdowns and ongoing restrictions on civil liberties. The region continues to experience intermittent violence and unrest, exacerbating humanitarian concerns and deepening political divisions. Efforts toward achieving peace and dialogue have remained elusive, leaving Kashmiris uncertain about their future and their aspirations for self-determination. Allegations of atrocities committed by Indian forces in IIOJK have escalated significantly since August 5, 2019.
Reports indicate that over the past five years, more than 11,264 women have reportedly been subjected to rape, and more than 22,976 women have been widowed due to actions attributed to the Indian Army. Additionally, more than 15,000 Kashmiris have suffered injuries or blindness, while over 171,627 Kashmiris have been imprisoned during this period. Shockingly, reports also suggest the existence of more than 6,700 mass graves and over 96,320 cases of innocent Kashmiris being killed.
India’s involvement in what is described as demographic apartheid in IIOJK is equally concerning, with reports indicating that more than 2,175,185 hectares of land have been allegedly expropriated, and over 250,000 illegal domiciles have been reportedly issued within this five-year span.
The animosity towards India among Kashmiris has intensified significantly since August 5, 2019. This date serves as a stark reminder to India that its alleged atrocities and unilateral actions have not dampened the Kashmiri liberation movement or their demand for the right to self-determination. The international community should take note of what is described as Indian brutality, atrocities, and human rights violations in IIOJK, and advocate for India to respect the right to self-determination for Kashmiris as outlined in UN resolutions. Kashmiris express a desire to exercise their right to self-determination and align with their natural choice, which they perceive to be Pakistan, rather than continuing under Indian governance.
