A recent congregation of representatives from member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah strongly condemned the ongoing atrocities committed by Indian occupation forces in the illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) region. The event, organized by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative in OIC Ambassador Syed Fawwad Sher, was chaired by the OIC’s Assistant Secretary General.
In attendance were the Consul General of Pakistan Khalid Majid, Chairman of the Kashmir Committee Jeddah Masood Puri, and the OIC’s Assistant Secretary General. The international community gathered at the event had the opportunity to visit an exhibition displaying photos and images that depicted the forceful occupation and killings in the Kashmir valley by Indian forces.
Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Salvation Committee, Altaf Bhat, also shared a video message wherein he spoke about his personal experience as a victim of Indian forces and represented the oppressed people of IIOJK. He shed light on the realities that have unfolded since the Indian government revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, including the reign of terror unleashed by Indian occupation forces.
Bhat emphasized the significant challenges faced by Kashmiris, such as limited internet access hindering education and the destruction of local businesses. He also highlighted the deliberate targeting of the economy of IIOJK, causing immense suffering among the people. Despite these challenges, Bhat stressed that Kashmiris have never accepted the Indian illegal occupation and continue to struggle for their right to self-determination.
He further mentioned the immense suffering endured by the Kashmiri people since 1947, including the loss of lives, detentions, destruction of structures, and atrocities committed against women and children. Bhat urged the OIC to take action by implementing resolutions, such as imposing economic sanctions on India if it does not allow an OIC delegation to visit IIOJK, creating a relief fund for Kashmir, and sending fact-finding missions to the region.
The OIC congregation in Jeddah highlighted the urgent need to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in IIOJK and to support the Kashmiri people in their quest for self-determination.