Srinagar, Shabbir Ahmed Shah, a senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference currently imprisoned, has criticized the upcoming parliamentary elections in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, labeling them as insufficient in addressing the fundamental political rights of the Kashmiri people. Shah emphasized the necessity for India to focus on creating a conducive environment for resolving the Kashmir dispute rather than conducting electoral exercises.
According to Kashmir Media Service, from Tihar Jail in New Delhi, Shah stated that the elections could not replace the Kashmiris’ right to self-determination. He articulated that the issue of Kashmir is a significant, unresolved political matter that should be approached with meaningful dialogue involving the key stakeholders: the Kashmiri populace, India, and Pakistan.
Shah remarked on the disconnect between the Kashmiri people and the Indian parliamentary elections, underscoring a collective disinterest in the electoral process which they view as irrelevant to their fundamental desire for self-determination. He also voiced concerns over the Indian government’s tactics in the region, which he described as aggressive and unrealistic towards achieving a peaceful resolution.
The senior APHC leader highlighted the international focus on Kashmir owing to the sacrifices of its martyrs and affirmed the local resolve to persist in their quest for autonomy from Indian governance. He also pointed out the harsh conditions under which thousands of Kashmiris, including political leaders and activists, are detained for advocating their right to self-determination.
Shah concluded by stating that the situation in Kashmir, recognized internationally as a disputed territory, must be resolved by granting Kashmiris their right to self-determination As per United Nations resolutions, which he believes is essential for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.