ISLAMABAD: Prominent human rights activist Mashaal Malik has launched a scathing criticism against the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government and administration, accusing them of suppressing the voices of innocent Kashmiris who are struggling for their fundamental rights.
Speaking on the ongoing situation in AJK, Mashaal Malik said that for several consecutive days, unarmed Kashmiris have been peacefully striving for their basic rights, but instead of addressing their grievances, the government and administration have chosen the path of violence and intimidation. She alleged that the authorities are directly involved in incidents of torture and repression, which reflect a complete disregard for democratic values.
“The voices of Kashmiris are being brutally silenced, internet services have been shut down, and citizens are being subjected to state-sponsored violence. If this is democracy, then what kind of democracy are we living in?” she remarked.
Highlighting the significance of AJK in the larger Kashmir struggle, Mashaal Malik stressed that Azad Kashmir has historically been considered the base camp of the Kashmir freedom movement. She warned that branding those who demand their constitutional and basic rights as “agents” is unacceptable and a dangerous narrative that undermines the legitimate struggle of the people.
She also urged the governments of Pakistan and AJK to act with wisdom and take serious notice of the situation instead of pushing people towards frustration. “Pakistan and AJK governments must wake up and realize the sensitivity of the situation before it escalates further,” she said.
Mashaal Malik strongly condemned the indiscriminate firing on unarmed civilians, demanding that those responsible be held accountable and brought to justice. She emphasized that the ongoing rights movement in AJK should not be dealt with through the use of force but resolved through meaningful dialogue.
Appealing directly to the country’s top leadership, she said, “We request the Field Marshal to take the voice of Kashmiris seriously and ensure that their concerns are addressed with urgency.”
Turning to the plight of her husband, detained Kashmiri leader Yasin Malik, she expressed disappointment over the silence at international forums. “The case of Yasin Malik is ongoing, yet the Prime Minister of Pakistan did not even mention his name at the United Nations General Assembly. This silence is deeply painful,” she said. She urged the Prime Minister to launch a worldwide campaign for Yasin Malik’s release and highlight his case on global platforms.
Concluding her remarks, Mashaal Malik reiterated that the demands of the people of Azad Kashmir for their fundamental rights must be heard, respected, and addressed immediately. She warned that continued neglect and suppression will not only damage the democratic image of Pakistan but also weaken the broader Kashmir freedom movement.
