JKSDMI team meets Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to discuss Kashmir & community issues

LONDON, Nov 16 (SABAH): A delegation from the Jammu Kashmir Self-Determination Movement International (JKSDMI) met with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner in Ashton-under-Lyne to discuss key issues, including the situation in Kashmir, community cohesion, and representation of British-Kashmiris within the Labour Party. The meeting continued JKSDMI’s longstanding relationship with Angela Rayner, who has consistently supported the Kashmiri cause and actively participated in JKSDMI events.

The JKSDMI delegation, led by Founding Chairman Raja Najabat Hussain Sitara-i-Pakistan, included Ex-Lord Mayor of Manchester and Chairperson of the International Lobby on Kashmir Councillor Yasmine Dar, JKSDMI Youth Wing Chairman Zeeshan Araf, and Senior Academic Tamoor Shafique. Lord Wajid Khan, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Lords Minister for Faith, Communities and Resettlement), also joined the meeting, further highlighting its significance.

Raja Najabat Hussain acknowledged Angela Rayner’s unwavering commitment and enduring friendship with the Kashmiri cause. He expressed gratitude for her long-standing advocacy for human rights violations in Kashmir, recognising her as a strong ally of the Kashmiri people. Raja Najabat Hussain emphasised that now, as Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner holds an influential position, and JKSDMI will fully back her efforts. He highlighted hopes for meaningful progress on the Kashmir issue through adherence to international law and offered the JKSDMI team’s full support, encouraging delegates to assist Angela in Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside, the North West, and nationally.

Councillor Yasmine Dar reiterated her dedication to human rights advocacy, particularly for the people of Kashmir, and extended her expertise to support the Deputy Prime Minister’s community-focused initiatives. She stressed the importance of addressing human rights violations in Kashmir and strengthening community dialogue.

Zeeshan Araf, a graduate in public policy and politics, expressed his eagerness to contribute to Labour Party initiatives, offering his skills to address key community issues and foster stronger ties with local stakeholders.

Senior Academic Tamoor Shafique underlined JKSDMI’s efforts during general elections to engage the Muslim community and support Labour’s campaigns nationally. He assured Angela Rayner of JKSDMI’s ongoing commitment to community-related initiatives and Labour’s mission to foster inclusivity and equality.

Lord Wajid Khan highlighted his ongoing work promoting unity and inclusivity across diverse communities in his capacity as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Lords Minister for Faith, Communities and Resettlement). He reaffirmed his commitment to working with JKSDMI and other organisations to achieve meaningful progress on shared goals.

Angela Rayner reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for the right of self-determination for the Kashmiri people and ensuring international law is upheld. She acknowledged JKSDMI’s contributions and assured the delegation of her dedication to engaging with the Kashmiri community while addressing issues affecting British-Kashmiris.

The meeting reinforced the shared commitment of JKSDMI and the Labour Party to addressing challenges impacting British-Kashmiris and fostering community cohesion. JKSDMI expressed gratitude to Angela Rayner for her continued friendship and support, marking another milestone in their collaborative efforts to advocate for Kashmir and promote inclusivity in the UK.