UN Human Rights chief voices concern over IIOJ&K situation

At the start of the 48th session of the UN Human Rights Council on human rights developments around the world, Michelle Bachelet said, “Indian authorities imposed restrictions on public assembly and frequent temporary communication blackouts continue while hundreds of people remained in detention for exercising their right to the freedom of expression and journalists faced ever-growing pressure in occupied territory”.

“The ongoing use of a tough law, which is aimed at quelling dissent, is worrying,” she added.

She said restrictive measures can result in human rights violations and foster further tensions and discontent in occupied territory.

In August 2019, the Indian government revoked Article 370 and other related provisions from its Constitution, scrapping Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomy, and splitting the disputed region into two federally administered territories in violation of UN resolutions.

Simultaneously, India locked the region down, detaining thousands of people, imposing movement restrictions, and enforcing a communications blackout.