SRINAGAR (Kashmir English): Civil society activists in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have expressed serious concern over systematic attempts by the BJP-led Indian government to undermine the distinct political, cultural and religious identity of the Kashmiri people.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the activists, in their statements issued in Srinagar, said the measures introduced after August 5, 2019, particularly the revocation of Article 370 and Article 35A, were aimed at weakening the Muslim-majority character and unique identity of the territory.
They said New Delhi was pursuing policies designed to dilute the demographic composition of IIOJK through non-local settlements, changes in domicile laws and other administrative measures.
Such actions, they added, were intended to erode the identity of the Kashmiri people and weaken their internationally recognized right to self-determination.
Reshaping Kashmir’s historical and cultural landscape
The activists maintained that the BJP-RSS ideology seeks to reshape Kashmir’s historical and cultural landscape and integrate it into a broader political agenda that disregards the aspirations and distinct character of its people.
They warned that efforts to alter the demographic structure of the territory would have far-reaching consequences for peace, stability and the protection of fundamental rights.
They said the revocation of the territory’s special status constituted a direct assault on the political and cultural identity of Kashmiris and intensified concerns regarding the preservation of their heritage, traditions and social fabric.
The activists emphasized that safeguarding the distinct identity of the Kashmiri people remains a fundamental concern and called on the international community to take cognizance of the situation.
They urged the United Nations and global human rights organizations to ensure the implementation of UN resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir and to protect the rights, identity and demographic integrity of the Kashmiri people.
They also called for holding India accountable for policies aimed at altering the demographic and cultural landscape of the territory, saying such measures violate international law and established international commitments regarding the disputed territory.
