Khurram Parvez, a prominent human rights defender in Kashmir, has faced arbitrary detention and retaliation from Indian authorities for three years. Despite international recognition for his dedication, including the Martin Ennals Award, he remains imprisoned under politically motivated charges. The situation illustrates a broader pattern of systemic repression following the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in 2019, as calls for his release intensify.
Khurram Parvez is a highly respected human rights defender who tirelessly advocates for justice in Kashmir, despite enduring significant personal risks. Serving as the Coordinator of the Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society (JKCCS) and holding prominent roles in Asian and International human rights organizations, his dedication has garnered him accolades like the Martin Ennals Award (2023) and the Reebok Human Rights Award (2006). Despite his efforts, he faces relentless persecution from the Indian authorities.
In 2016, Khurram was prevented from attending a UN Human Rights Council session and later detained for 76 days under the criticized Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act. This detention was ultimately ruled unlawful by the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, highlighting its arbitrary nature. In October 2020, after JKCCS released a report on the human rights consequences of Kashmir’s communications blockade, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) invaded his home and office, signaling escalating vendetta.
On November 22, 2021, Khurram was arrested by the NIA under politically charged allegations linked to India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Currently imprisoned in New Delhi’s Rohini Jail, he has faced extended pre-trial detainment and multiple charges, with fellow JKCCS member Irfan Mehraj also incarcerated under similar accusations. Colleagues associated with JKCCS experience ongoing harassment, characterized by frequent legal summonses and interrogations.
Marking the third anniversary of Khurram’s detention serves as a stark reminder of systemic oppression in Kashmir since the 2019 abrogation of Article 370. This constitutional shift has led to intensified human rights abuses and a grim atmosphere for civil liberties, as detailed in a 2024 FIDH report. The withdrawal of this special status has promoted targeted crackdowns on human rights advocates like Khurram, fostering an environment rife with fear and intimidation.
In solidarity with Khurram Parvez, his loved ones, and all human rights defenders in the region, we demand his urgent release and the end of retaliatory actions against him and JKCCS. We implore Indian authorities to honor their human rights commitments, halt the criminalization of human rights efforts, and allow Khurram the freedom to return home unhindered.
The situation concerning Khurram Parvez highlights the chilling climate for human rights defenders in Kashmir, particularly following the revocation of Article 370, which granted the region special autonomy. This change exacerbated existing human rights violations and curtailed civil liberties, establishing an environment that systematically targets individuals advocating for human rights. As Khurram continues to suffer under unfounded charges, his case has become emblematic of the broader struggle faced by many in Kashmir who dare to speak truth to power.
Khurram Parvez stands as a beacon of hope amidst the dark realities of human rights violations in Kashmir. His continued detention reflects the Indian authorities’ persistent crackdown on dissent. As we advocate for his release, it becomes crucial to recognize the wider implications for human rights advocacy in Kashmir and press for the protection of those who courageously fight for justice.
Original Source: www.fidh.org
