India: Authorities Must End Repression of Dissent in J&K

Muhammad Shahid Abbasi

On September 18, 2024, Amnesty International released a poignant statement highlighting the ongoing human rights violations and state aggression in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The situation in the region has become increasingly dire, particularly in the wake of the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which granted special status to J&K. Since then, the Indian government has escalated its repression of dissent, employing various tactics to silence critics and control the narrative surrounding the region.

As the state elections approach, the Indian authorities have resorted to a range of punitive actions—including travel bans, arbitrary detentions, and passport revocations—to create a climate of fear. These measures not only violate the fundamental rights of individuals but also serve to intimidate anyone who dares to voice opposition to the government’s policies in J&K. The oppressive atmosphere has silenced dissenting voices and stifled freedom of expression, further exacerbating the already fraught political landscape.

Amnesty International has documented numerous cases of journalists, political leaders, and activists who have faced arbitrary restrictions. Notable figures, including photojournalist Masrat Zahra and political leader Waheed Para, have encountered severe repercussions for their criticisms of the government. Many have been denied travel or had their passports revoked, which severely limits their freedom of movement and ability to express their opinions publicly. Such actions reflect a deliberate strategy to instill fear and self-censorship among the populace.

The legal framework governing J&K has also facilitated this crackdown. Since the revocation of Article 370, the Indian government has misused anti-terror laws, such as the Public Safety Act (PSA) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), to justify arbitrary detentions. Reports indicate a staggering seven-fold increase in cases filed under the PSA since 2019, with approximately 37% of all UAPA cases across India being registered in J&K. This statistic underscores the alarming trend of targeting dissenters under the guise of national security, while the conviction rate remains dismally low at just 3%.

The broader implications of these measures extend beyond the immediate effects on individuals. The Indian government’s efforts to exert control over Jammu and Kashmir have significantly undermined local governance and autonomy. The empowerment of the Lieutenant Governor to oversee the region has further eroded the democratic processes that once existed, creating a disconnect between the government and the people of J&K.

Furthermore, the repercussions of dissent are felt not only by those directly targeted but also by their families. The harassment of family members and loss of career opportunities for individuals like journalist Majid Haideri and activist Sajjad Gul serve as chilling reminders of the lengths to which authorities will go to enforce compliance. The arbitrary detention of legal professionals, including Mian Abdul Qayyum, a former President of the J&K High Court Bar Association, illustrates the urgent need for accountability in the region.

In a particularly concerning development, the Indian government has taken steps to revoke the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) statuses of non-resident critics of its policies in Kashmir. The cases of Amrit Wilson, a British journalist of Indian origin whose OCI status was cancelled due to her critical tweets about the abrogation of Article 370, and Nitasha Kaul, a British-Indian professor denied entry into India on similar grounds, exemplify this troubling trend. Such actions not only represent a violation of individual rights but also raise significant questions about India’s commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.

Amnesty International’s call for the release of individuals detained under the PSA and UAPA is not merely a plea for justice; it is an urgent demand for the Indian authorities to uphold human rights in J&K. The systemic repression of dissent in the region must end, and the government must take concrete steps to restore the rights and freedoms of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

To achieve genuine peace and stability, the Indian government must prioritize dialogue and reconciliation over repression. Engaging with dissenting voices rather than silencing them is crucial for fostering an inclusive political environment. The voices of the people of Jammu and Kashmir must be heard, and their rights must be respected.

As the international community watches closely, it is imperative for India to reconsider its approach to dissent in J&K. The consequences of continued repression will not only impact the lives of individuals in the region but will also have broader implications for India’s standing on the global stage. A commitment to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law is essential for India to fulfill its potential as a beacon of hope and progress in the world. The time for change is now; the authorities must end the repression and pave the way for a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir.

The writer is Indian political affairs expert