ISLAMABAD, Mar 25 (APP): Pakistan on Wednesday categorically rejected the awarding of a life imprisonment sentence to Aasiya Andrabi, a prominent Kashmiri political leader, along with the harsh 30-year prison sentences imposed on her two associates, Fehmeeda Sofi and Nahida Nasreen, by a Delhi court. The Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, in a statement, said that the verdict given under the draconian law the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, constituted a …
Pakistan condemns sentences awarded to Aasiya Andrabi, other Kashmiri women by Indian court
ISLAMABAD, Mar 25 (APP): Pakistan on Wednesday categorically rejected the awarding of a life imprisonment sentence to Aasiya Andrabi, a prominent Kashmiri political leader, along with the harsh 30-year prison sentences imposed on her two associates, Fehmeeda Sofi and Nahida Nasreen, by a Delhi court.
The Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, in a statement, said that the verdict given under the draconian law the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, constituted a grave miscarriage of justice and reflected the continuing suppression of fundamental rights in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
“Pakistan views this decision as part of a broader pattern of politically motivated prosecutions aimed at silencing dissenting voices and intimidating those advocating the legitimate rights of the Kashmiri people,” he said and viewed that the sentencing raised serious concerns regarding due process, judicial independence, and adherence to international human rights obligations.
The spokesperson said that Aasiya Andrabi had long been a vocal advocate for the Kashmir cause and her conviction and harsh sentencing underscored the shrinking space for political expression and civil liberties in IIOJK.
“Pakistan believes that such actions further exacerbate tensions and undermine prospects for peace and stability in South Asia.”
The spokesperson urged the international community, including the United Nations and global human rights organisations, to take immediate notice of this development and to hold India accountable for its actions in IIOJK.
He also called for the protection of the political, social, and human rights of the Kashmiri people, including the right to freedom of expression and a fair trial.
“Pakistan reiterates its unwavering support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their just struggle for self-determination, as enshrined in relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions,” Andrabi added.
