THE expression of solidarity by the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dr Mahathir Bin Mohamad, on the occasion of Kashmir Black Day stands as a beacon of hope for the oppressed people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). His vocal condemnation of the heinous atrocities inflicted on the Kashmiri people by Indian forces sends a powerful message to the international community and reverberates with the collective yearning for justice and freedom.
The unilateral revocation of Kashmir’s autonomous status by India four years ago, as highlighted by Dr Mahathir, has only exacerbated the suffering endured by the Kashmiri people. The deliberate attempts to alter the region’s demographic composition and suppress the voices of dissent remain a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by the Kashmiris in their quest for self-determination. The Kashmiri people have endured decades of suffering and deprivation, with their voices often drowned out by geopolitical complexities. The call for justice and self-determination remains the heart of their struggle, a struggle that transcends borders and resonates with the universal principles of human rights and dignity. At this critical juncture, it is imperative for other influential leaders, especially those from the Muslim world, to step forward and lend their support to the cause of the Kashmiri people. The resonance of their voices, echoing Dr Mahathir’s sentiments, will exert significant pressure on India to engage constructively in the resolution of the long-standing Kashmir dispute. Such unified advocacy from global leaders will not only underscore the urgency of addressing the Kashmir issue but also emphasize the need for respecting the fundamental rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. As the international community grapples with various humanitarian crises, the plight of the Kashmiri people must not be overlooked. It is incumbent upon influential leaders to speak out against the injustices and human rights violations in IIOJK. Their collective advocacy will serve as a catalyst for encouraging meaningful dialogue and fostering an environment conducive to a peaceful and just resolution of Kashmir dispute. It is time to shun political and economic expediency and stand with the oppressed rather than the oppressor in order to ensure peace and stability in the region and beyond.
