Peaceful protest is not a crime.

Human rights are universal and must be protected without exception.

A delegation of the Kashmiri Community in Canada, led by Sardar Rasheed Advocate and headed by Sardar Tahir, formally submitted a memorandum to the Pakistani Consulate expressing profound concern over the deteriorating situation in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, where growing public unrest has led to widespread demonstrations, political tensions, and allegations of serious human rights violations.

The memorandum raises concerns regarding reports of civilian casualties, the use of force against peaceful protesters, arrests and detention of political activists, restrictions on communication networks, and limitations on freedom of expression and assembly. The delegation emphasized that the suppression of peaceful dissent and the use of violence against unarmed civilians are deeply troubling developments that warrant immediate national and international attention.

Across Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, thousands of residents have participated in demonstrations to voice concerns over governance, economic hardship, rising costs of living, resource management, and political accountability. Community representatives noted that the unrest reflects broader demands for transparency, justice, democratic participation, and respect for the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, community leaders stated that democracy cannot thrive where citizens face intimidation, arrests, or violence for exercising their fundamental rights. They stressed that freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, access to information, and protection from arbitrary detention are internationally recognized rights that must be upheld at all times.

The memorandum calls upon Pakistani authorities to exercise restraint, protect civilians, ensure transparent and independent investigations into allegations of excessive use of force, and engage in meaningful dialogue with affected communities. It also urges the protection of activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens seeking to peacefully express their concerns.

The delegation further appealed to the international community, including human rights organizations, democratic institutions, and global monitoring bodies, to closely observe developments in the region and support efforts aimed at safeguarding fundamental freedoms and preventing further escalation of tensions.

Sardar Rasheed Advocate and Sardar Tahir reaffirmed the Canadian Kashmiri community’s commitment to peaceful democratic advocacy and called for justice, accountability, and respect for human dignity. They emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve accountable governance, economic opportunity, social justice, and the freedom to peacefully voice their grievances without fear of repression.

As concerns continue to grow over the situation in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, the Canadian Kashmiri community maintains that lasting peace and stability can only be achieved through dialogue, adherence to the rule of law, and unwavering respect for human rights. The delegation concluded by urging all stakeholders to prioritize peaceful solutions and ensure that the voices of ordinary citizens are heard, protected, and respected.