Pakistan strongly condemns ban on Muharram processions in Srinagar

ISLAMABAD, August 07 (SABAH): The Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) local authorities have denied permission to the traditional peaceful Muharram processions from Gurubazar towards Buchwara and Abi-Guzar towards Zadibal routes, scheduled to be held on 8th and 9th Muharram in Srinagar.

According to a statement issued by Foreign Office Spokesperson Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan strongly condemns these curbs on Kashmiri Muslims to practice their faith and restraining them from congregating on special religious occasions.

FO spokesperson said that as Pakistan has repeatedly underlined, imposition of restrictions on Muharram processions represents complete disrespect and deep-rooted prejudice by the Indian government for the sentiments of the Muslims in IIOJK. It is also a flagrant violation of Kashmiris’ fundamental right of freedom of religion.

He said that denying the Kashmiri Muslims their right to worship and to carry out these processions peacefully is yet another illustration of India’s ongoing assault on religious freedoms of minorities, especially Muslims, in IIOJK and in India. It is also reflective of the ‘Hindutva’ driven majoritarian mindset of the BJP-RSS dispensation.

Asim Iftikahr Ahmad said that Pakistan calls upon the international community, the United Nations, and other human rights and humanitarian organisations to hold India to account for its suppression of religious rights and freedoms of the Kashmiri people in violation of international law and conventions.