GENEVA, (Unib Rashid) – At the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, a call was made for the establishment of an international investigation into alleged human rights violations in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Speaking during the Item 4 General Debate, Altaf Hussain Wani, representing the World Muslim Congress, urged the Council to constitute an International Commission of Inquiry into what he described as crimes against humanity in the region.

Wani told the Council that United Nations resolutions recognizing Kashmir as a disputed territory have remained unimplemented for over seven decades. He alleged that the region’s status has effectively been “determined by force,” in violation of international commitments.

UNHRC Urged to Launch Inquiry into ‘Crimes Against Humanity’ in Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/NzwPN5AhS7

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In his address, Wani outlined a series of serious allegations, including enforced disappearances, the existence of unmarked mass graves, and the use of pellet guns causing severe injuries, including blindness among civilians. He characterized these actions as systematic and state-driven rather than isolated incidents.

The statement also pointed to what it termed the economic exploitation of the region, alleging that natural resources — including rivers, minerals, and forests — are being utilized in a manner that benefits the administering authority while contributing to local economic deprivation.

Rejecting claims that the situation constitutes an internal matter, Wani argued that the Kashmir issue remains an internationally recognized dispute under frameworks such as the UN Charter and the Geneva Conventions. He stressed that sovereignty does not exempt states from accountability under international law.

Wani further called on influential global powers to take a more active role, warning that continued inaction risks enabling further violations. He urged the international community to move beyond statements and establish concrete accountability mechanisms.

Concluding his remarks, Wani paid tribute to the resilience of the Kashmiri people, stating that despite decades of conflict, they have maintained their identity and dignity. He called for urgent global attention, emphasizing the need for justice and international oversight.

The World Muslim Congress reiterated its demand for a credible and independent investigation, urging the international community to take meaningful steps toward addressing the situation.