Empowering the voices of Kashmiris- YFK stands for Press Freedom and Human Rights in IIOJK
Islamabad: World Press Freedom Day is a day to remember the critical role that a free and independent press plays in advancing democracy, accountability, and human rights throughout the world. Unfortunately, India continues to severely limit and weaken press freedom in IIOJK, making it difficult for journalists to report on matters of public interest and to hold those in authority accountable.
As a result of the Indian Illegal Occupation in IIOJK, journalists have faced numerous difficulties, including harassment, intimidation, and even violence from both state and non-state actors. A number of press limitations have been enforced by the Indian government such as; censorship, arbitrary detentions, and the suspension of communication networks, all of which have fueled fear and self-censorship. These actions have largely restricted the free flow of information and silenced those who want to bring attention to the violations of human rights and other problems affecting the Kashmiri people.
On this particular day, we stand in support of the Kashmiri press and demand that they should be given the universally recognized right to freedom of the press. We implore India to free all journalists who have been unjustly detained and to stop intimidating and harassing the media in any way. Additionally, we demand that the Indian government should remove all restrictions on communication and internet networks, which are essential to the operation of a free and independent press.
Zaman Bajwa, Executive Director of YFK, gave his message that the ongoing restrictions on press freedom in IIOJK are deeply concerning and go against the basic principles of democracy and human rights. He urged the Indian government to remove all the restrictions imposed on the media of IIOJK. He also appreciated the crucial role that journalists play in delivering the public with unbiased and accurate information.
Aleena Zafar, a researcher at YFK, while highlighting the importance of Press Freedom said that it is a key component of a democratic society. In support of the Kashmiri press, she called on the Indian government to renounce the restrictions on the media of IIOJK. Syed Ali Muneeb, a YFK- lobbyist, showed his support to the Journalists and Media Organizations. He paid tribute to the journalists and the media organizations working in IIOJK who have been working under incredibly difficult circumstances.
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- Youm-e-Istehsal: Kashmir’s Struggle for Freedom, Echoes of Resilience and the Pursuit of Self-Determination - August 5, 2023
