Kashmiri Activists Condemn the Arrest of Human Rights Activist Khurram Parvez by NIA of India

Nov 23, 2021 | Press Release

-World Kashmir Awareness Forum Calls to Protect Activists and Free Speech-
Washington, DC (November 22, 2021) – The World Kashmir Awareness Forum (WKA) issued the following statement on the arrest of Kashmiri human rights activist Khurram Parvez.

“We condemn the arrest of Khurram Parvez that took place today by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Parvez is one of Kashmir’s most courageous and fearless human rights activists, coordinator of Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society, and chairperson of the Asian Federation Against Involuntary Disappearances.

On Monday evening, Parvez was unlawfully arrested following a raid of his residence and office by the NIA under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). This act has been used by Indian forces to harass, assault and imprison Kashmir’s human rights activists, political leaders, and journalists. Such actions by the NIA are politically motivated and are part of the Indian government’s attempt to further silence Kashmiri voices. As these heinous acts against the indigenous people of Kashmir and Jammu continue, the resiliency of the local people and the hope they have for self-determination grows stronger. We stand in fierce opposition to India’s actions against the people of Kashmir and condemn any restriction of free speech and expression throughout the region.

It is imperative we stop the Indian government’s attack on free speech in the region and we urge the government and international community to ensure that rights activists, political leaders, and local journalists are allowed to work freely and without harassment. Our thoughts are with Parvez and his family during this unlawful arrest.”

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About WKA (the World Kashmir Awareness Forum)

Founded in 2005, the World Kashmir Awareness Forum is a Washington, D.C.-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on providing information on the conflict in Kashmir and advocating for Kashmiris in the region and throughout the diaspora. To accomplish its mission, World Kashmir Awareness Forum produces, aggregates and amplifies news articles and events relevant to the region, organizes and participates in demonstrations and rallies, and engages in advocacy efforts with diplomatic, civic, religious, human rights, political and advocacy organizations, confronting the human rights abuses perpetrated in Kashmir and supporting the region’s right to self-determination. Learn more at kashmirawareness.org.