We are deeply concerned at several interlinked troubling recent developments in Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir, says a press release received here today from London. We have noted increased ceasefire violations across Line of Control, additional deployment of 38,000 troops, hightend state-sponsored repression against the defenceless Kashmiris, and reports regarding attempts to abrogate articles 35-A and 370 of the Indian Constitution, which define the residents of IOK and limits subjects like property ownership and state citizenship to the indigenous Kashmiris of the area. By abolishing Article -35, India plans to change the demographic structure of IOK. According to the Kashmiris in IOK, India has been systematically trying to alter the demography with ulterior motives. This would be a blatant violation of the UN Security Council’s resolutions on Kashmir dispute and would seriously jeopardise regional peace and security. Reportedly, there has been wide-spread anxiety and fear in IOK. Hindu pilgrims for Amaranth Yatara , tourists and students have been advised to leave the IOK forthwith, which suggests that PM Modi led BJP government is up to something drastic. Political parties in IOK have voiced their serious concern and expressed strong opposition to any legal or administrative measures aimed at changing the " special status" of the IOK. The Indian government has failed to clarify its position behind these extraordinary measures. The Indian government has also not taken any measures to calm down the situation. Reportedly, In addition to the ceasefire violations across LOC, in the latest provocation, Indian army has used cluster ammunition against civilian population in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the death of two civilians including a 4-years child and a dozen injuries. It is a highly condemnable act. No excuse or pretext justifies use of cluster bomb or ammunition. It violated international law and was in contravention of the relevant convention. The P-5 countries have a responsibility and vital stakes in regional peace and security. As a P-5 member we must act and act now before it’s too late.
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