UKPNP leader calls on UN to protect rights of people of Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan

Sardar Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, the exiled chairman of United Kashmir People's National Party (UKPNP), has once again called for the protection of the human rights of the people residing in Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Participating recently in the 28th session of UN Human Rights Council, Kashmiri described the human rights situation in these three regions as grim.

In a press release, Kashmiri said Pakistan is a signatory to the UN resolutions on Kashmir as well as on agreements related to the disputed territory of Gilgit-Baltistan, and therefore, there was a need for the UN to put pressure on the former to withdraw its forces from these two regions and grant autonomy to its inhabitants.

He described the existing system as oppressive and wasteful. He said Islamabad's policy of depriving local residents of their freedom of speech and expression, and their right to peaceful political activity required international scrutiny.

Kashmiri emphasized that political and socio-economic deprivation and lack of development in the area has created a vacuum which is being filled by the radical elements, including those who provide foot soldiers to the terrorist groups. He claimed that the situation has resulted in a brain drain, with people and their families abandoning the region.

Kashmiri urged the international community, including members of the UN Security Council to remind Pakistan of its commitments to the UN resolutions on Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan and respect the rights of locals.

He also said that the Kashmir issue cannot be solved amicably if Pakistan fails to fulfill its duty as a signatory.