[Part 3 in a series by guest author, San’aa Sultan]
India is viewed as the world’s largest democracy, a progressive nation, and a rising and powerful country. This success story, however, hides its human rights record.
In the occupied territory of Kashmir, human rights are almost out of reach for the general population. Safety within one’s own home is not guaranteed, nor is the right to a dignified life.
In contrast, the perpetrators of the abuse are allowed to roam free under a draconian law known as the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).
The AFSPA allows the occupying forces the right to:
- Shoot to kill
- Arrest without warrant
- Detain without time limitations.
The law also forbids the prosecution of soldiers without an approval from central government, which is rarely granted. This has allowed the army to develop systematic methods of violating the Kashmiri population which include torture and rape.
This widespread use of violence against a population of 12 million without any hope of justice not only abuses Kashmiris physically and mentally, but also acts as a source of psychological trauma.
The never ending cycle of perpetration and what subsequently amounts to justification of injustice is harming Kashmir. Women, men, and children who have suffered loss over many decades have not had their cries heard nor their pain eased. Instead, it has deepened.
Today I ask, why is it that their pain is veiled by silence? Why is it that the world does not call for an end to the use of such draconian laws that subdue our people? Are we not ultimately one and the same?
The AFPSA and similar laws around the world must be brought to an end if we wish for justice to prevail. Freedom from occupation will never truly come without the implementation of justice.
San’aa Sultan