Extrajudicial Killings & Enforced Disappearances in IoK
Extrajudicial
killings and enforced disappearances are tools of state repression in conflict
zones. In Indian-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IoK), Indian occupation forces use these tactics to silence dissent. Under the
pretext of security operations, they suppress civilians with brutal force. These
unlawful practices carried out under the guise of counterinsurgency
operations, enable security forces to eliminate individuals without due
process, bypassing legal accountability. Victims, often activists, journalists
civilians, are either killed in staged encounters or forcibly disappeared,
leaving families in a perpetual state of anguish and uncertainty. The absence
of independent investigations and judicial oversight allows these crimes to
persist with impunity, reinforcing a climate of fear that stifles resistance
and erodes fundamental human rights.
By Faraz Ali Junejo
Recently, in North Kashmir’s Baramulla, Waseem Ahmad Mir was
fatally shot by the Army at a checkpoint, despite no credible evidence
suggesting he posed an imminent threat. The military’s pursuit of his vehicle
for over 23 kilometres and the use of gunfire raise serious concerns about
excessive force and the routine dehumanisation of Kashmiri lives. In Jammu’s
Kathua, another tragic case of state brutality emerged with the custodial death
of Makhan Din, a 25-year-old civilian. He was subjected to severe torture and psychological
abuse in police custody, ultimately leading to his death. His recorded
testimony inside a mosque, where he professed his innocence, underscores the
arbitrary and oppressive tactics used to silence dissent. These cases exemplify
the systemic violence inflicted upon Kashmiri civilians, reinforcing a climate
of fear and repression designed to crush resistance and conceal state
atrocities.
The revocation of Article 370 stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its
special status, placing it under direct central rule. This move was swiftly
followed by mass detentions and a total communication blackout, isolating the
region from the outside world. Political leaders were placed under house arrest
public gatherings were banned, silencing all forms of dissent. New laws were
introduced, allowing non-residents to buy land, raising fears of demographic
changes that could marginalise Kashmiris. To enforce these changes, the
military presence was intensified, with widespread crackdowns on civilians.
Reports of human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests and extrajudicial
killings, surged as repression deepened. This systematic suppression has only
fueled resentment and further alienated the local population, worsening the
region’s long-standing conflict.
In IIOJK, Indian forces have systematically silenced Kashmiri
dissent and suppressed those who speak the truth through violent means. These
actions are deliberate attempts to eliminate anyone who challenges the dominant
narrative or exposes injustices committed by the state; they are not
spontaneous. A wide range of individuals, including journalists, activists,
religious leaders civilians, have been subjected to such repression. One
striking example is the June 2018 assassination of journalist Shujaat Bukhari,
who was known for his commitment to truth and peace. His killing in broad
daylight sent shockwaves through the media landscape, instilling fear among
those who dared to critique government policies. Local communities, political
activists journalists have faced systematic persecution, with political workers
advocating democratic rights and educators promoting reforms also becoming
victims of state-led suppression. In this climate of fear, dissent is met with
brutal consequences, stifling free speech and discouraging civic engagement.
Another layer of anguish inflicted on the Kashmiri people is
represented by enforced disappearances. Indian forces have abducted thousands
of people without warning or due process, leaving families to wonder what will
happen to their loved ones. In addition to destroying individual families, this
approach instills a generalized terror throughout society. The rights of
families impacted by these disappearances are being fought for by groups such
as the Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons (APDP). They keep track of
cases, offer consolation to bereaved families hold authorities accountable. The
tragic tale of Zahoor Ahmad, a farmer who was arrested by security agents in
2004 and hasn't been seen since is one example. His wife, who embodies the
unwavering hope, keeps looking for him. Representing the unwavering optimism that many families impacted by
such tragedy exhibit. This issue has taken on a terrifying new dimension with
the revelation of mass graves scattered throughout Kashmir. Over 6,000 unmarked
graves have been found, according to reports from the Jammu and Kashmir State
Human Rights Commission. This raises serious concerns regarding the identity of
the people buried there and the circumstances of their deaths. These burials underscore
the critical need for accountability while acting as somber reminders of the
decades-long violence that has engulfed the area.
Groups like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have
condemned these violations. They have called for independent investigations,
but their efforts have had little impact. The Indian government rejects such
inquiries, citing national security concerns. This refusal leaves Kashmiri
families feeling abandoned by the world. Powerful nations remain silent,
prioritising geopolitical interests over human rights. As a result, many
Kashmiris continue to fight for justice alone. The impact on Kashmiri society
has been devastating. Families of the disappeared live with lifelong trauma and
financial instability. Many face social exclusion because of their association
with victims of state violence. Fear dominates daily life, silencing dissent
and discouraging civic participation. Children grow up witnessing violence or
experiencing its psychological effects at home. This environment creates stress
and anxiety, shaping a generation under constant fear. As sorrow deepens, the
social fabric weakens support systems erode.
The world must no longer ignore these injustices. Targeted killings
and enforced disappearances demand urgent attention. Independent investigations
are necessary to uncover the truth and bring relief to grieving families.
Justice and accountability are essential for healing and reconciliation. The
voices calling for justice represent a universal demand for dignity and
recognition. Kashmiris have shown resilience despite decades of oppression. Activists
like APDP chairperson Parveena Ahangar continue to fight for justice. She
reminds the world, "The world may be silent, but we will continue to
defend the right to justice." Her determination reflects the unbreakable
spirit of Kashmiris. The global community must act now. The voices of the
missing and the cries of their families cannot be ignored. Ending this cycle of
violence is a moral and humanitarian duty.
The writer is a research intern at the Kashmir
Institute of International Relations (KIIR) and serves as the General Secretary
of HEAL Pakistan, an initiative dedicated to fostering humanity, education
empowerment, awareness leadership.