‎Geneva, (Unib Rashid) __ On the occasion of International Women’s Day, prominent Kashmiri human rights activist and chairman of the Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR), Altaf Hussain Wani, has paid glowing tribute to Kashmiri women for their resilience and sacrifices amidst ongoing conflict in region.
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‎In his statement, Wani said that women in Kashmir have borne the brunt of prolonged violence and state repression, which India uses as a tool to suppress dissent. He highlighted the sexual and psychological abuse faced by women at the hands of occupying forces, as well as the application of discriminatory laws, noting that India has failed to honor its commitments under international conventions to protect the dignity and rights of women in the region.
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‎Wani also commended Kashmiri women for their unwavering struggle and sacrifices in the face of adversity.
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‎Calling for an immediate end to violence against women, he urge UN mandate holders and other international bodies to use their influence to halt crimes against women in the occupied territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
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‎He further called for holding the Indian government accountable for the actions of its forces against Kashmiris.
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‎The KIIR chairman expressed particular concern over the continued detention of Kashmiri women activists, notably Asiya Andrabi, who, along with her key aides, has been languishing in Tihar Jail for several years.
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‎Wani’s statement underscores the urgent need for global attention to the challenges faced by women in conflict zones and calls for immediate measures to ensure their safety, dignity, and human rights.