Islamabad, 23rd February, 2023: The 33rd meeting (in-camera) of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir was held today, at Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Makhdoomzada Syed Basit Ahmed Sultan, MNA.
2. The Hon. Chairman welcomed the Members, special invitees and Senior Officers in the meeting. The Committee offered Fateha for the departed souls of civilians including Sher Alam Mahsud, Ex-Secretary, Ministry of Kashmir Affairs & GB and Shuhada of Pakistan Armed Forces, Police other law enforcement agencies and Kashmiri freedom fighters including those leaders who died in the illegal, unlawful custody of Indian forces, in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), victims of the earthquake in Turkiye & Syria.
3. The Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, briefed the Committee on the latest situation of Kashmir dispute and Human Rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and activities observed regarding Kashmir Solidarity Day on 5th February, 2023. On queries the Secretary, Foreign Affairs apprised the Committee regarding the up-coming G-20 meeting proposed to be held by India in disputed area of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK).
4. Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan briefed the Committee regarding Kashmir issue and activities observed regarding Kashmir Solidarity Day on 5th February, 2023. The Adviser with the permission of the Hon. Chairman responded to the various issues raised by the Hon. Prime Minister of state of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Minister of Finance of state of Azad Jammu & Kashmir. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting including PEMRA, Defence and National Security Division also briefed the Committee regarding the observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day.
5. The Committee unanimously authorized the Hon. Chairman to constitute a Sub-Committee of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir for the purpose of formulating a comprehensive and broad based policy on Kashmir with the mandate to improve the coordination mechanism between Government of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Ministry of Kashmir Affairs & GB.
6. The meeting was attended by the Hon. Members Sardar Riaz Mahmood Khan Mazari, Mr. Muhammad Sajjad, Malik Sohail Khan, Mr. Muhammad Jamal Ud Din, MNAs and Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan, Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan, Prime Minister of State Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Ch. Akbar Ibrahim, Minister of Government of State of AJ&K, Mr. Abdul Majid Khan, Minister of Government of AJ&K and Senior Officers from Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kashmir Affairs & GB, Defence, Interior, Information & Broadcasting, Human Rights, National Security Division, PEMRA and Government of State of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
Islamabad, 25 October, 2022: The 31st meeting (in-camera) of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir was held today, at Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Makhdoomzada Syed Basit Ahmed Sultan, MNA.
The Chairman welcomed the Members and special invitees in the meeting. The Committee offered Fateha for the departed souls of Shuhda of Pakistan Armed Forces, Police other law enforcement agencies and the Kashmiri freedom fighters including those leaders who are in the illegal, unlawful custody of Indian forces, in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK); and Pakistani Journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya,
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, briefed the Committee on the latest situation of Kashmir dispute with historical background and future strategy of the Government. The Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan also briefed the Committee with regards to the historical background and observance of black day 27 October 2022. The Chairman added that Kashmir is a vital issue and it must be raised and highlighted at every forum.
The meeting was attended by the Hon. Members Dr. Muhammad Afzal Khan Dhandla, Mr. Muhammad Amjad Farooq Khan Khosa, Ms. Nuzhat Pathan, Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Mr. Muhammad Sajjad, Chaudhry Abid Raza, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Ms. Seema Mohiuddin Jameeli, Mr. Muhammad Jamal Ud Din, MNAs and Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed and Mr. Qammar Zaman Kaira. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan, Ms. Mushaal Hussain Malik Chairperson Kashmir Peace & Culture organization and Senior Officers of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Interior, Kashmir Affairs & GB, National Security Division and Deputy Commissioner ICT.
The 31" meeting (in-camera) of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir was held today, at Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Makhdoomzada Syed Basit Ahmed Sultan, MNA.
The Chairman welcomed the Members and special invitees in the meeting. The Committee offered Fateha for the departed souls of Shuhda of Pakistan Armed Forces, Police other law enforcement agencies and the Kashmiri freedom fighters including those leaders who are in the illegal, unlawful custody of Indian forces, in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK); and Pakistani Journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya,
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, briefed the Committee on the latest situation of Kashmir dispute with historical background and future strategy of the Government. The Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan also briefed the Committee with regards to the historical background and observance of black day 27 October 2022. The Chairman added that Kashmir is a vital issue and it must be raised and highlighted at every forum.
The meeting was attended by the Hon. Members Dr. Muhammad Afzal Khan Dhandla, Mr. Muhammad Amjad Farooq Khan Khosa, Ms. Nuzhat Pathan, Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Mr. Muhammad Sajjad, Chaudhry Abid Raza, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Ms. Seema Mohiuddin Jameeli, Mr. Muhammad Jamal Ud Din, MNAs and Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed and Mr. Qammar Zaman Kaira. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan, Ms. Mushaal Hussain Malik Chairperson Kashmir Peace & Culture organization and Senior Officers of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Interior, Kashmir Affairs & GB, National Security Division and Deputy Commissioner ICT.
Time to hold India accountable for war crimes in IIoJK: Afridi
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan National Assembly Special Committee on Kashmir Chairman Shehryar Khan Afridi Thursday said that the ruthless killings of Kashmiri civilians and arrest of globally renowned human rights defender Khurram Parvez has proved that it is about time for the world to hold India accountable for its war crimes and crimes against humanity in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIoJK).
Afridi was addressing participants at a seminar held to mark International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women at Fatima Jinnah Women's University in Islamabad.
The seminar “The daughters of IIoJK: Victims of Indian State Terrorism - Challenges and Way Forward” was co-organized by the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir.
Afridi said that the Indian occupational regime in Jammu and Kashmir has started a new killing spree in Kashmir.
The Indian occupational regime is trying to spread fear among Kashmiris through extra-judicial killings and arrests of human rights activists and journalists but Indian suppression have failed to terrorize the Kashmiri people, he said.
He said that the recent killings of three Kashmiri youth and four civilians in the cold blood is a part of the same Indian ploy to spread fear among Kashmiris but India has failed.
The Kashmiri people have foiled Indian design as the Indian regime retreated and was forced to hand back the bodies of two civilians despite its policy of dumping Kashmiris in unnamed graves, he said.
He also denounced the arrest of human rights defender Khurram Parvez by the infamous NIA and demanded immediate release of Khurram Parvez and senior Kashmiri leaders from Indian jails.
Arrest of Khurram Parvez, a globally recognized face on human rights, is evidence that India is using war tactics to suppress Kashmiris. “Work and documentation done under Khurram Parvez has exposed India globally and his arrest by the terror-inflicting NIA shows how India is blocking all means to tell Kashmir story,” Afridi said.
Asiya Andrabi, Fehmeeda Sofi and Naheeda Nasreen are symbols of resistance for Kashmir and constant imprisonments could not break their resolve, Afridi said.
He said that the Kashmiri women are writing a new chapter of resistance in human history and worst India oppression couldn't break their commitment towards freedom movement.
"Every Pakistani has a responsibility to speak for our Kashmiri brethren. The youth of Pakistan are dynamic and committed," he added.
Afridi said that the orphans and widows of Kashmir are looking for support and Pakistanis have to become a voice of the unheard Kashmiris.
Dr Mujahid Gilani gave a presentation on the resilience of Kashmiri women while Dr Waleed Rasool discussed the way forward on Kashmir dispute resolution.
Parliamentarian Asma Qadeer said that Hindus started terrorism against Muslims of the subcontinent before partition and in nexus with the British empire, Hindus targeted Muslims and sidelined them in all spheres of life.
She said that Pakistanis need to proliferate information about Kashmir through social media and tell the world how the Indian Illegal occupational regime in Jammu and Kashmir are killing and maiming Kashmiris.
She said that the biggest responsibility of the Kashmir dispute is upon the British empire.
Dr Sobia gave an overview of the International Day for elimination of violence against women.
Tahir Javed, Pakistani-American businessman, was given a special award by Shehryar Afridi for working for the Kashmir cause in the US.
ISLAMABAD November 9, 2021: Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Shehryar Khan Afridi on Tuesday urged the OIC special representative for Jammu and Kashmir to consider economic sanctions and embargoes against India for human rights violations committed against the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
He expressed these views while chairing a special meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir attended by the visiting delegation led by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) special representative for Jammu and Kashmir Yousuf Al Dubai.
Chief Minister GB Khalid and Prime Minister Azad Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Abdul Qayyum Niazi specially attended the meeting. A delegation from All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) and Advisory boards of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir also attended the meeting.
Chairman Kashmir Committee welcomed the OIC special envoy for Kashmir and said the parliamentary committee has representation from both Houses of Parliament and has members from all political parties.
Chairman Kashmir Committee Shehryar Khan Afridi said that the OIC is key stakeholder of Muslim Ummah and the OIC contact group must play its due role to help resolve the Kashmir dispute.
Chairman Kashmir Committee Shehryar Khan Afridi raised a proposal for a visit of the committee to the OIC Secretariat along with the APHC delegation to help sensitize the OIC on the human rights violations in IIOJK.
He said the Secretary General of the OIC has been playing a pivotal role in raising the humanitarian aspect of the issue of Jammu and Kashmir.
He said that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is a test case for the global stakeholders of the global community.
He said that the United Nations must learn from the failure of the League of Nations. He said that the world thought the United Nations would provide solutions to the humanitarian issues faced by the people.
He said that the rape is being used as a tool to suppress Kashmiris resistance.
He said that the world has banned pallet guns use even against animals but the Indian forces are using pallets against Kashmiri Muslims.
He said that India was implementing its vicious plan of converting all religious minorities into Hindus by force yo convert India into a Hindu Rashtra.
He said that the Indian regime is implementing demographic change to alter Muslim majority state of Jammu and Kashmir into a Hindu majority state.
Shehryar Khan Afridi said Indian regime was also implementing a vicious plan to kill all top Kashmiri leaders in jails in the garb of COVID-19 pandemic. He said two top Kashmiri leaders i.e. Syed Ali Geelani Shaheed and Ashraf Khan Sehrai Shaheed.
He warned that the lives of Asiya Andrabi, Dr Qasim Faktu, Yasin Malik and other senior Kashmiri leaders are at stake and they may be killed anytime while in jail.
He said that evidence of mass rapes and mass graves in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir unfortunately have failed to shake the conscience of the world community.
He said that Pakistan has been warning the world that Kashmir dispute is a nuclear flashpoint and the expansionist agenda of Modi regime may jeopardise peace in South Asia region.
He said that the role of the OIC is critical in saving the future of billions of people.
OIC Special Envoy for Kashmir Yousuf Al Dubai said that Pakistan is playing a key role in the OIC. He said that the OIC is concerned over the demographic change being engineered in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
He regretted that the international community didn't fulfil its commitments made on the Kashmir issue.
He said that the OIC contact group also raised the issue of Kashmir at the recently held session of United Nations General Assembly in New York.
He said that the OIC contact group has been taking concrete steps to help resolve the Kashmir dispute.
"If we have a clear mandate, OIC can raise a proposal at the United Nations for putting economic sanctions and embargoes on India but it needs a huge diplomatic effort," he said.
He said that the OIC had raised the issue of Rohingya and Sri Lankan Muslims and had helped resolve their miseries. He said that the OIC group would do everything possible to help resolve Kashmir dispute.
Prime Minister AJK Sardar Abdul Qayyum Niazi and Chief Minister Gilgit Baltistan also addressed and urged the OIC to play its due role in taking punitive actions against occupational regime of India in Jammu and Kashmir.
Members of the Parliamentary Committee also spoke their hearts out and said that the OIC needs to show its will and move ahead from lip service on Kashmir dispute and take practical steps to help the suffering humanity in Jammu and Kashmir.
Islamabad, 2nd March, 2020: The 10th (in-camera) meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir was held today, at Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Syed Fakhar Imam, MNA.
2. The Chairman welcomed and thanked the Special Envoy of the OIC Secretary General on Jammu and Kashmir Ambassador Yousaf Aldobeay, and his 5 Members delegation for visiting Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir as Pakistan accord great value to the OIC’s unwavering support on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. He also appreciate the OIC condemnation of the India’s illegal actions in IOJ&K, reiteration of its principled position on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, as well as its holding of two meetings of the Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir are welcomed steps. However, the gravity of the situation in IOJ&K warrants greater involvement of the OIC.
3. Later, The Chairman briefed the visiting Envoy and his delegation about the historical background of the Kashmir dispute and latest situation in the held Kashmir. He further urged that India needs to immediately rescind its illegal actions of 5 August 2019 and take concrete steps towards the Resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with the UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. Moreover, the OIC should send a fact finding delegation to Indian occupied Kashmir in order to obtain first hand information about the deteriorating inhumane condition of the Kashmiris. The Hon. Members of the Committee also emphasized on the need of unity among the Muslim ummah / OIC Members on the issue of Palestine and Kashmir without dividing themselves on the conspiracies of our common enemies. They also urged the special Envoy for support to the hapless people of IOJ&K in their testing times with an appeal to OIC countries to use their political influence and economic clout to prevent India from committing further atrocities in IOJ&K.
4. The visiting envoy apprised the Committee about the activities and efforts of the OIC Secretary General to address the complaints of the Kashmiri brethrens as well as to solve the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the resolutions of the UN Security Council. He further said we are visiting Azad Jammu and Kashmir to see the condition of the people living near the LoC as well as to meet the political leadership there in Azad Kashmir to understand their point of view and difficulties they are facing since last 72 years.
5. The meeting was attended by the Hon. Members namely: Ms. Nuzhat Pathan, Mr. Muhammad Akram Cheema, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Ms. Sobia Kamal Khan, Ms. Asma Qadeer, Ms. Ghazala Saifi, Ms. Uzma Riaz, Ms. Naureen Farooq Ibrahim Khan, Mr. Khurram Dastgir Khan, Ms. Kiran Imran Dar, Chaudhry Abid Raza, Dr. Nisar Ahmed Cheema, Ms. Zaib Jaffar, Mr. Muhammad Jamal Ud Din, Nawabzada Iftakhar Ahmed Khan Babar, Mr. Rafique Ahmed Jamali, MNAs Senator Mushahidullah Khan, Senator Sherry Rehman, Secretary, Ministry of Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit Baltistan Mr. Tariq Mehmood Pasha, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to OIC Amb. Rizwan Saeed Sheikh and Senior Officers of Ministry of Foreign Affairs were also present in the meeting.
Islamabad, the 19th February, 2020; A delegation consisting of 12-Members of the UK Parliament’s All-Party Parliamentary Kashmir Group (APPKG) led by Hon. Ms. Debbie Abrahams, MP, Chair of All Party Parliamentary Kashmir Group (APPKG) (Labour Party) called on Syed Fakhar Imam, Chairman, Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir and Members of the Parliament at Speaker’s Lounge, Parliament House, Islamabad.
2. While welcoming the delegation the Chairman said we are really thankful for the MPs for visiting Pakistan and AJK to see the situation on ground and to assess and analyze themselves the gravity of the Kashmir dispute, particularly after the unilateral and illegal action of Indian Government on 5th August, 2019. He said that the world at large has already taken serious view of the situation and since then the Kashmir dispute has fully been in the world media considering India as an intolerant state now. Moreover, the world most important political leaders, Parliaments and credible newspapers and media houses has condemned the Indian government over Human Rights violation in India and particularly in the Indian held Jammu and Kashmir where the life of the Kashmiris has converted into a living tragedy. He further said international community and the Parliamentarians like you must play their affective role to pursue their governments to speak loudly on the unprecedented Human Rights violation being committed by the Indian Arm forces and for the right of self determination of the Kashmiris as enshrined in the United Nations resolutions and its charter.
3. The leader of the group from UK appreciated the detailed account of the situation given by the Chairman with historical background and said that our group has come to Pakistan independently to see the situation on ground and to meet the people who are suffering from the last seven decades due to non implementation of UN resolutions. She further said that there is a need to do something concrete in order to solve the problem while exploring all avenues and forums to minimize the sufferings of the people of Kashmir as well as to make away to translate the resolutions of the UN Security Council for holding a free and fare plebiscite under the auspices of United Nations in to reality. She also said that the third report of the United Nations Human Rights Commission can only be further processed when the recommendations made in the earlier reports are implemented by the parties concerned.
4. The Hon. Members from the both sides agreed to further highlight the issue of Kashmir on all national and international forums to put consisting pressure on Indian government and to avoid further escalation between the two nuclear armed neighborly countries as well as to find and amicable solution of the Kashmir dispute without any further delay. They also shown their concern over the continued exchange the firing on LoC resulting in deaths of innocent civilians and property.
5. During the meeting the Members of the Parliament of both countries namely: Hon. Mr. Tahir Ali, MP, Hon. Ms. Hon. Ms. Judith Cummins, MP, Hon. Mr. Imran Hussain, MP, Hon. Ms. Sarah Briteliffe, MP, Hon. Mr. James Daly, MP, Hon. Mr. Mark Eastwood, MP, Hon. Lord Qurban Hussain, Ms. Yasmine Dar, Senator Mushahid Hussaind Syed, Mr. Sher Ali Arbab, MNA, Mr. Khurram Dastgir Khan, MNA, Dr. Nisar Ahmed Cheema, MNA, Ms. Asma Qadeer, MNA, Ms. Zaib Jaffar, MNA were also present in the meeting.
Islamabad, the 20th November, 2019; The German Ambassador H.E. Bernhard Schlagheck called on Syed Fakhar Imam, Chairman, Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir in his chamber, Parliament House, Islamabad.
2. After welcoming the Ambassador, the Chairman appreciated the recent statement of the German Chancellor (Angela Merkel) during her visit to India saying that current situation in Kashmir is “not sustainable” and needs to change for sure. The Chairman also highlighted the inhuman treatment by the Indian forces in IOK and gross fundamental human rights violations being committed in unprecedented prolong lockdown and curfew in the most militarized zone of the world. He further apprised the Ambassador about Jammu and Kashmir dispute as one of the oldest unresolved international disputes pending agenda of the Security Council and since then it is the core dispute between Pakistan and India which has threatens the peace and stability internationally as well as in the region particularly after the 5th August action by the Indian Government. He further said that the international community has to take note of prevailing situation in the Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir and its serious implication for the international and regional peace and security. Pakistan is continued to follow its principle stand on the issue by demanding to hold a plebiscite to exercise the right of self determination in the light of UN Resolutions.
3. The Ambassador thanked the Hon. Chairman for an informative and very thoughtful assessment of the latest situation of the Kashmir and said that we are also watching the situation carefully with the hope that the both countries will sit together to solve the core dispute of Kashmir soon. He also stress the need to improve the trade volume between the two countries.
Islamabad, the 1st November, 2019; The Chairman Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Syed Fakhar Imam says Pakistan will continue supporting just struggle of Kashmiris till they achieve their right to self-determination as promised in the UN Resolutions.
2. In an exclusive interview with Radio Pakistan's News and Current Affairs Channel, he said India has deployed 900,000 troops against eight million population of the occupied Kashmir, which has become unprecedentedly highly militarized zone in the world. He said Modi regime is committing barbarism in Occupied Kashmir in pursuit of ultranationalist Hindutva philosophy of RSS, which started since 1923.
3. Syed Fakhar Imam said Pakistan had never recognized when the Indian government abolished Article 370 and 35 A through presidential decree as it was an internal arrangement between ex-prime minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru and ex-chief minister of Indian Occupied Kashmir Sheikh Abdullah. Under that arrangement, they had granted special status to the Occupied Kashmir with a Legislative Assembly and now New Delhi has negated the internal arrangement negotiated between Nehru and Shaikh Abdullah. He said we consider Kashmir a disputed territory as recognized in UN Security Council Resolutions of 1948 and 1949. He said Kashmir is still a disputed territory and UNSC's special session convened in August this year has once again vindicated this point. He said special session of the five permanent members of the UNSC over Kashmir is recognition that it is an international dispute, which has to be resolved through a UN brokered plebiscite and in accordance with the aspirations of the people of Kashmir.
4. The Chairman said now the Modi regime gas converted the state into two union territories, giving them under the direct control of New Delhi. He said occupied Kashmir has been under curfew and complete communication blockade for last 88 days. He said around 13,000 young boys have been taken away, women are being raped, and there is shortage of medicines and food, while children are unable to go to school.
5. Syed Fakhar Imam said that the international media, including New York Times and Washington Post, highlighted how the humanity is suffering at the hands of Indian occupation forces in Kashmir. He said the world has realized that it is India, which is committing state terrorism in Kashmir and rejected New Delhi's narrative in this regard. He said two reports United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) have revealed that India is involved in massive human rights violations in Occupied Kashmir. He said for the first time about 12 members of foreign relations committee of US House of Representatives put very tough questions to Assistant Secretary of State Allice Wells and questioned why Trump Administration is keeping mum over grave human rights violations in Indian Occupied Kashmir. He said French Parliament also debated the situation in Occupied Kashmir.
6. Answering a question, the chairman said due to effective campaign of the government of Pakistan, the international community's thinking is changing over Kashmir. He said India tried to mislead the international community as Modi Government's public relations stunt by inviting a specific group of parliamentarians of European Union, but several of them refused to accept the invitation, when they came to know that they will not be given free access to talk to local people and roam around freely. He said that EU Parliamentarian Chris Davis not only declined New Delhi's invitation, but observed that he is not prepared to take part in a PR stunt for the Modi Government and pretend that all is well. It is very clear that democratic principles are being subverted in Kashmir and the world needs to start taking notice.
7. Syed Fakhar Imam said minorities and lower class people in India are now want independence from the intolerant Indian Union. He said the current rulers of India are taking the country away from secularism and democracy.
Islamabad Oct 16, 2019: In a strongly worded country statement to the General Assembly of the 141st Inter Parliamentary Union here in the Serbian capital of Belgrade, Pakistan’s Syed Fakhar Imam, has warned the global parliamentary community that the besieged Valley of the Indian Occupied Kashmir may endanger global peace beyond repair if not addressed comprehensively by the world.
The seasoned Chairman of the Kashmir Committee and Head of the Pak Parliamentary Delegation presented a comprehensive account of Indian atrocities in Kashmir and invited the world attention for meaningful actions according to message received from Belgrade, Serbia.
Fakhar also hailed the statement of the UK Parliamentary delegation’s head John Whittingdale, who enlisted Kashmir among the world flash points, meriting urgent attention.
“The inalienable right to self-determination of the people of Jammu & Kashmir as enshrined in the UN Security Council resolutions must be upheld. The international community must not remain a silent spectator to the plight of the innocent people of Kashmir”, said Fakhar reminding the world parliamentary body that “democracy cannot claim to be truly representative, if it fails to protect basic human rights of its people, especially the marginalized, women and children.”
While stressing on all parliamentarians to send a fact finding mission from the platform of IPU to the besieged valley of Kashmir, to see for themselves the plight of innocent Kashmiris, Fakhar enlisted the continued denial of basic rights and acts of aggression by India in Kashmir.
“Around 100,000 Kashmiris have been martyred and thousands have gone missing. More than 100,000 children have been orphaned, 22,000 women have been widowed and over 11,000 women raped.
More than 8,000 unnamed mass graves have been discovered with thousands of victims of brutal Indian aggression.
The imposition of curfew in Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK) since August 5, arrest of Kashmiri leaders and suspension of communication services, and use of pellet guns and banned cluster ammunition targeting innocent civilians calls for condemnation by every humanitarian and democratic body including the IPU,” said Chairman of the Kashmir Committee.
He also reiterated Pakistan’s historical and principled stance that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute should be resolved only through dialogue and diplomacy and in accordance with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions and international law.
Reiterating Pakistan’s trust in multilateralism, Fakhar Imam opined that welfare goals of all states were common and together the global fraternity could achieve more. He termed regional peace and stability core to sustainable development and prosperity.
While stressing on the importance of taking everyone along, Fakhar said that democracies must be equal opportunity providers to women, youth and the marginalized to be truly inclusive. It is evident from history that women and youth can be true change agents, models of resilience and advocates of peace.
“The Government of Pakistan stands committed to the international Conventions and Treaties like CEDAW, ICCPR, Beijing Platform for Action, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that mandate women's empowerment through various actions.
Non-partisan forum of Pakistani Women Parliamentarians, the “Women’s Parliamentary Caucus” has also been at the forefront in highlighting the issues confronting women at the heart of the national development agenda and taking measures to empower women by active legislation and oversight,” said Fakhar.
(Islamabad, Monday the 16th September, 2019) MP Mr. Afzal Khan, Vice Chair of All Party Kashmir Parliamentary Group in House of Commons and Rana Athar Javed, DG, Pakistan House (an Institute of International and Cultural Affairs) called on Syed Fakhar Imam, Chairman Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir at Parliament House.
2. After welcoming remarks the Chairman apprised the latest situation of Kashmir and different activities being done at the level of Committee and Parliament to further strengthen and promote the principled stand of Pakistan for the right of the self-determination to Kashmiris around the world and particularly highlighting the unprecedented human rights violation and atrocities committed by Indian armed forces during the last few years which were also mentioned in the UNHCR reports consecutively published during 2018-19. Now, there is need to keep to this momentum until the Kashmiris got their birth right of right of self-determination.
3. Mr. Afzal Khan also shared with the Chairman, the activities of All Party Kashmir Parliamentary Group in House of Commons as well as Kashmiris and Pakistani communities during the last few weeks. According to Mr. Khan there were very large and successful demonstrations by the people of different communities together to condemned the Indian atrocities and human rights violation in London which is an indicator of peoples awakening and strong feelings for oppressed Kashmiris facing curfew and total communication blackout from August 5, 2019 on word.
Islamabad, the 22nd August, 2019; A 6 Member delegation led by Mr. Qais Khan Wakilli (Senator from Bamyan Prov) called on Chairman PKC in the Parliament House.
2. The Chairman welcomed the delegates on visiting Pakistan and said that South Asia is passing through a very delicate phase as the Afghani brethrens are busy in negotiation with United States and Taliban to reach a peace agreement expected soon which would defiantly paved the way for permanent peace, development and prosperity in Afghanistan and it is inextricably linked to the security in Pakistan as well of wider region. On the other hand Indian Prime Minister on August 5, 2019 has taken an unilateral decision of revoking Article 370 and 35-A which is not only illegal but contrary to UN Resolutions and international norms. Such action has created a volatile situation between the two nuclear neighboring countries. The Chairman further appraised the delegation about the historical, legal and international viewpoint of the Kashmir dispute in detail.
3. The Afghan Parliamentary leader replied that we are thankful for active, positive and vital role being played by Pakistan for peace process in Afghanistan. Moreover, he also appreciated the role of Pakistan during the invasion of Afghanistan and hosting Afghan refugees. On the issue of Kashmir the delegates supported the Pakistani viewpoint to solve the Kashmir dispute in the light of United Nations Resolutions and through free and fair holding of plebiscite.
4. The Chairman also informed the delegation about the deteriorated law and order situation in the Indian held Kashmir due to 19 days prolonged curfew and also the lives of Kashmiris are in danger due to shortage of food and medicines, therefore, the international concerned organizations should take note of this human crises and make such arrangements while asking India to provide an access to the international media and observers to visit the IoK as also recommended in the Human Rights report of United Nations 2019. He further said that leading international newspapers and channels are regularly highlighting the day to day deteriorating situation in IoK and also exchange of heavy firing at the line of control between Armed Forces of the India and Pakistan with grave concern and considered it a potential nuclear flash point that can threat any time the regional and world peace. The Chairman stressed upon the need that the international community particularly P-5 countries must take a serious view of the situation and support the Kashmiri people for their right of self determination while condemning unprecedented Indian atrocities being committed by the Armed Forces against the innocent Kashmiris in the highly militarized zone of the world.
Islamabad, 5th August, 2019: The 6th meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir was held today, at Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Syed Fakhar Imam, MNA. The Committee was discussed the latest precarious situation in IOK and unprovoked firing by Indian side on LoC using cluster bombs resulting casualties of innocent citizens.
2. The Chairman said that our principle stand for the inherit right of the self determination of the people of the Kashmir as admissible under UN charter is irrevocable and any changes such as article 35-A and 370 done by the Indian government constitute a material breach of the UN Security council resolution on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. He further said that since Kashmir is a disputed territory between the two countries as per the United Nations Security Council’s resolution passed during 1948 and 1949 in which the UN body after a lengthy debate prescribed a “plebiscite” to evaluate the free will of the people of the Jammu and Kashmir. Unfortunately, Indian governments instead of paying attention to holding a plebiscite, keep on lingering the issue in order to alter the demographic structure of IOK so that they can achieve a majority ignoring the fact that UN body just recently produced two reports on the human rights violations by the Indian side in IOK being a disputed territory and urged for sending a fact finding mission there.
3. During the meeting the Members comprising of all the major political parties representing in the Parliament unanimously approved a draft resolution conveying the complete solidarity with the Kashmiri people for their struggle and just cause. The Committee strongly condemns India’s reckless and unilateral decision which is a violation of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions on the issue, therefore, rejected the Indian actions as illegal under the international law and unjustified. The Committee also understands that any irresponsible action on the Indian part would have far reaching and grave consequences for the peace and prosperity of South Asia being nuclearized neighbors. The Committee also reaffirms Pakistan’s political, diplomatic and moral support to the people of Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir for their legitimate right to self-determination as enshrined in the UNSC resolutions and calls upon the international community to urge India to refrain from undertaking any irresponsible, unilateral actions and work with Pakistan to achieve a just solution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute as per the United Nations Security Council resolutions.
4. The Chairman also introduced (Mrs. Mushaal Mullik) the wife of the APHC leader Mr. Yasin Malik (Chairman JKLF) detained in the Tehar Jail (India) to the Committee who apprised the latest deploring condition of his husband confronting in the death cell of the jail. She said my husband is moving towards a slow death while denying any medical aid and keeping him in isolation and inhumane conditions contrary to basic human fundamental rights. The Chairman and the Committee highly appreciated the courage and bravery of all the APHC leaders particularly, Mr. Yasin Malik and his wife. The Committee also demonstrated their complete solidarity with the All Party Hurriyat Conference leadership detained in different parts of India just to silence their voice for their right of self-determination through force and negative tactics. Later on the Chairman including all the Committee Members addressed a press conference outside the Parliament House to pledge their unwavering support to the people of Kashmir in such a most distressing moments as well as uncertainty created by the Indian side during the last few days in Indian occupied Kashmir.
5. The meeting was attended by the Hon. Members Ms. Nuzhat Pathan, Mr. Muhammad Akram, Ms. Sobia Kamal Khan, Mr. Muhammad Amjad Farooq Khan Khosa, Ms. Asma Qadeer, Ms. Ghazala Saifi, Ms. Uzma Riaz, Mr. Khuram Dastgir Khan, Ms. Zaib Jaffar, Syed Mehmood Shah, MNAs, Senator Mushahidullah Khan, Senator Muhammad Ali Khan Saif, special invitee Mr. Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan. Secretary, Ministry of Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit Baltistan, Special Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs were also present in the meeting.
Islamabad, the 29th July, 2019; A delegation consisting of Members of the European Parliament led by Richard Corbett MEP, Leader of the Labour Party in Europe called on Syed Fakhar Imam, Chairman, Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir in Speaker’s Lounge, Parliament House, Islamabad.
2.After welcoming the delegation and exchange of pleasantries, the Chairman said that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is one of the oldest unresolved international disputes pending agenda of the Security Council and since then it is the core dispute between Pakistan and India which has threatens the peace and stability internationally as well as in the region. He further said that the international community has to take note of prevailing situation in the Indian occupied in the Jammu and Kashmir and its serious implication for the international and regional peace and security. We are continue to follow the situation closely and are always there to support politically, morally and diplomatically to our Kashmiri brothers and sisters.
3.The Members of the delegation said that they are visiting Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir to gain firsthand knowledge about the Kashmir dispute. During this visit they will meet different Pakistani and Kashmiri dignitaries to understand their point of view about the different dimensions of Kashmir dispute, as well as to discuss the possible way forward to find an amicable solution of this dispute.
4.The Chairman also appreciated the role of Pakistani expatriates which is extremely important in raising consciousness around the world about the human rights violations of the people of Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir and reaching out to official and non-official representatives for an end to the relentless oppression in the Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
5.The other members of the European Parliament namely; Irina Von Wiese and Shaffaq Mohammad, MEPs were also present in the meeting.
Islamabad, 27th May, 2019: The Chairman, Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir Syed Fakhar Imam expressed his deep sorrow and grief on the sad demise of Ambassador Yusuf Buch who died in New York after a long illness last Friday. Mr. Chairman said that late Yusuf Buch was a true Kashmiri, and a distinguished diplomat who served the contrary for a long time and the people of Pakistan particularly Kashmiri cannot forget his services while working in the United Nations for the Kashmir cause.
May Allah grant departed soul a highest place in Jannah and also courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.
A COMMISSION OF INQUIRY TO CONDUCT A COMPREHENSIVE INDEPENDENT INTERNATIONAL INVESTIGATION INTO ALLEGATIONS OF HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN KASHMIR IS INEVITABLE TO STOP INDIAN OPPRESSION.
ONLY IN THE MONTH OF APRIL, 13 KASHMIRI WERE MARTYRED BY THE INDIAN ARMED FORCES; SYED FAKHAR IMAM
Islamabad, 10th May, 2019: The 3rd Meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir was held today, at Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Syed Fakhar Imam, MNA. The Committee was briefed by the Foreign Minister, Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Hussain Qureshi about the latest situation of Kashmir dispute with historical background and future strategy of the Government.
2. As per agenda the Foreign Minister briefed the Committee in detail regarding the Kashmir dispute with historical background as well as a future strategy. He also shared with the Committee, the efforts of the present government and the achievements they have made so far particularly reports of the UN Human Rights Commission, report of the All-Party Parliamentary Kashmir group UK and report of the debate discussed on Kashmir in the House of Commons. In these reports first ever in the history the UN Human Rights Commission categorically asked the India to repeal its draconian laws and gross violations of human rights with systematic impunity given through Public Safety Act 1978 and Armed Forces (Jammu & Kashmir) Special Powers Act 1990.
3. While appreciating the briefing of the Foreign Minister the Chairman said that besides making all efforts to highlight the Kashmir issue effectively on all important forums we may also care about our economy because a stable and strengthen economy provide us an opportunity to stand firmly on our ideology and principled stand about the Kashmir and other international challenges. He further said a commission of inquiry to conduct a comprehensive independent international investigation into allegations of human rights violations in Kashmir is inevitable to stop Indian oppression and it is a matter of grave concern that only in the month of April, 2019, 13 Kashmiri were martyred by the Indian Armed Forces and 2018 remained the deadliest year for the Kashmiris as the number of martyred crossed the figure of 500 in this year alone.
4. The Honorable Members also raised different questions regarding the government policy for the Kashmir, the Foreign Minister replied as far the future strategy is concerned we are patiently waiting for the election results of the Indian sides and who so ever will be forming the government we shall try to engage them to the peaceful solution for the core issue of Kashmir. The Chairman and the Committee also extended their full support to the Foreign Minister for his future engagements, he mentioned in his briefing. The Chairman also pointed out a large number of arrest of Kashmiri Hurriyat leaders particularly the precarious health condition of Mr. Yasin Malik who has been detained by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) basically to crush the struggle of the Kashmiris for their right of self determination. The Committee completely expressed their political, moral and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people for their just struggle of self determination. The meeting was concluded with a vote of thanks to all the participants and expect that Committee will continue to work for this national cause till its amicable solution.
5. The meeting was attended by the Hon. Members Ms. Nuzhat Pathan, Mr. Muhammad Akram, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Ms. Sobia Kamal Khan, Mr. Muhammad Amjad Farooq Khan Khosa, Ms. Ghazala Saifi, Mr. Muhammad Sana Ullah Khan Masti Khel, Ms. Uzma Riaz, Syed Makhdoomzada Basit Ahmed Sultan, Ms. Naureen Farooq Ibrahim Khan, Mr. Khurram Dastgir Khan, Ms. Zaib Jaffar, Syed Mehmood Shah, Raja Pervez Ashraf, Nawabzada Iftakhar Ahmed Khan Babar, MNAs, Senator Mushahidullah Khan, Senator Sherry Rehman, Senator Mohsin Aziz, and Senator Muhammad Ali Khan Saif, special invitee Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Hussain Qureshi, Foreign Affairs and the Secretary, Ministry of Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit Baltistan and senior Officers of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were also present in the meeting.
Islamabad, 6th May, 2019: The first formal Meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir was held today, at Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Syed Fakhar Imam, MNA. The Committee was briefed by Sardar Muhammad Masood Khan, President of Azad Jammu & Kashmir regarding the Kashmir dispute with its historical background and suggestion for future strategy.
2. While introducing the President of Azad Jammu & Kashmir the Chairman mentioned him as a seasoned diplomat and considered an authority on the Kashmir issue. The Chairman Syed Fakhar Imam, briefly shed light on the Kashmir dispute since partition and also said that Kashmir issue is, basically, an unfinished agenda of the partition plan. He also referred to important events in our history, we solve the dispute amicably but on account of India’s intransigence.
3. The President of Azad Jammu & Kashmir gave a detailed over view of the Kashmir issue from all dimensions and also urged the Committee to play its due role to further highlight the Kashmir issue in the international arena while effectively using Parliamentary diplomacy and media. The Members took a very keen interest in the proceedings. They made several suggestions and recommendations. The Committee Members also pointed out that the reports of the UN Human Rights Commission, UK Parliamentary Group, and European Union Human Rights Committee may be discussed in the next meeting to formulate a comprehensive strategy for a future plan of action.
4. The Committee also strongly condemned un-provoked firing by the Indian side during the last three months particularly yesterday when a women and a young boy were killed and another injured badly in Azad Jammu & Kashmir villages of Gujran and Sehra (Khui Ratta and Hajirah sub division of Kotli and Poonch District). The Committee expressed solidarity with the Kashmiri people and further, said that such a cowardly attack and use of force cannot change the principled stance of the Kashmir.
4. On conclusion of the meeting, the Members and the Chairman deeply appreciated the briefing of the President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and also congratulated the Chairman on assuming charge of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir with great expectations.
5. The meeting was attended by the Hon. Members Ms. Nuzhat Pathan, Mr. Muhammad Akram, Ms. Sobia Kamal Khan, Mr. Muhammad Amjad Farooq Khan Khosa, Ms. Ghazala Saifi, Mr. Muhammad Sana Ullah Khan Masti Khel, Ms. Uzma Riaz, Ms. Naureen Farooq Ibrahim Khan, Mr. Khurram Dastgir Khan, Ms. Zaib Jaffar, Syed Mehmood Shah, Nawabzada Iftakhar Ahmed Khan Babar, MNAs, Senator Mohsin Aziz, Senator Mir Kabeer Ahmed Muhammad Shahi, Senator Sherry Rehman and Senator Muhammad Ali Khan Saif, special invitee Sardar Muhammad Masood Khan, President of Azad Jammu & Kashmir and the Secretary, Ministry of Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit Baltistan and Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were also present in the meeting.
Islamabad, the 1st April, 2019; The President Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Masood Khan called on Chairman Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir, Syed Fakhar Imam on Monday in his Chamber at Parliament House Islamabad.
During the meeting the President AJK congratulated the Chairman on his election unanimously as Chairman Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir. He further said that keeping in view of his the Parliamentary experience, political stature and vast knowledge, the people of Pakistan rightly expect from the Chairman to lead the Committee in the right direction and best interest of the Pakistan. The Chairman replied that it is our duty to work selflessly for the betterment of our people in order to solve their problems particularly the Kashmir dispute according to the UN resolutions and wishes of the people of Kashmir. He further said that we must approach all the important forums, well renowned Universities and think tanks to tell the world about the Kashmir dispute with right historical background and latest human rights violations in the Indian occupied Kashmir by the Indian Armed Forces contrary to Human Rights Charter and resolutions passed by the UN Security Council.
Islamabad, March 13, 2019: The Pakistan Parliamentary delegation led by Syed Fakhar Imam, Member National Assembly/Chairman National Assembly Kashmir Committee called on the President of the House of Representatives of the Kingdom of Morocco Habib Al Maliki on sidelines of the 14th Session of PUIC and its related meetings, message received from Morocco.
During the meeting, head of Pakistan’s Parliamentary delegation conveyed that the Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan was expected to attend this august gathering hosted by the brotherly Kingdom of Morocco but due to important business in the House, the Speaker National Assembly on his behalf nominated delegation to represent Pakistan. On behalf of the Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan, head of Pakistani delegation verbally invited the President of the House of Representatives of Kingdom of Morocco to visit Pakistan. He also stressed upon taking concrete steps for promotion of bilateral parliamentary relations and exchanges of visits of Parliamentarians from Pakistan and Morocco. He also informed that Pakistan-Morocco Parliamentary Friendship Group has been reactivated by the Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan.
On behalf of the National Assembly of Pakistan and behalf of delegation, Syed Fakhar Imam expressed his gratitude to the President of the House of Representatives for extending generous hospitality during the stay in Rabat and also stated that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the brotherly Kingdom of Morocco, a country held in high esteem by the people of Pakistan.Ms. NaureenFarooq, MNA, RanaQasim Noon, MNA and Mr. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhury also attended the meeting.
He informed the Moroccan Speaker on recent wave of tensions between Pakistan and India. He stated that Pakistan is a peaceful and sovereign country and is desirous of having good relations with all its neighbouring countries.Pakistan would not tolerate any violation of its territorial integrity and reserves the right of self-defence.India’s allegations of Pakistan’s involvement in the recent Pulwama attack on Indian forces in Indian occupied Kashmir are baseless.He also apprised the President of the House of Representatives about latest situation in Jammu & Kashmir and brutalities committed by the Indian forces. Last three years remained very hard for the innocent civilians of the Jammu and Kashmir. Resistance and Martyrdoms of Mr. BurhanWani and most recent a suicide attack by Adil Ahmad Dar at Pulwama is the result of illegal occupation of Indian occupied Kashmir and abuses range from the mass extra-judicial killings of hundreds of thousands people, forced disappearances ending up for women being half-widows, torture, rape and sexual abuse to political repression and suppression of freedom of speech. He said PUIC and Moroccan government must play its role in resolving issue of Kashmir.
President of the House of Representatives of the Kingdom of Morocco has expressed his gratitude to the delegates of the Pakistan’s Parliamentary delegation for visiting Rabat and said he and his country is happy to receive the brothers from Pakistan. He also thanked for invitation for visit to Pakistan. He ensured that he will play his role for enhancement of friendship and parliamentary exchanges between Pakistan and Kingdom of Morocco. He also wished the delegates best for stay in Rabat.
Islamabad, 1st March, 2019; Meeting for the election of Chairman of the Special Committee on Kashmir was held on Friday, the 1st March, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. in Committee Room No.2, Parliament House, Islamabad.
2. The meeting commenced with recitation from the Holy Quran. The Special Secretary, National Assembly Secretariat, welcomed the Hon. Members and apprised them about the agenda and procedure for election of Chairman.
3. Later on, the proceeding of the election of the Chairman was started. Consequently, Sheikh Rohale Asghar, MNA proposed the name of Syed Fakhar Imam, MNA and seconded by Mr. Muhammad Amjad Farooq Khan Khosa, MNA. Accordingly Syed Fakhar Imam, MNA/Member was unanimously elected as Chairman of the Special Committee on Kashmir.
4. The Special Secretary congratulated the newly elected Chairman on behalf of the Honourable Speaker and Secretary, National Assembly Secretariat. He also assured them of full support of the Secretariat for effective and efficient functioning of the Committees under the supervision of the Honourable Speaker. The Hon. Members of the Committee one by one congratulated and expressed their full confidence and cooperation to the newly elected Chairman and the Chairman also reciprocated them for giving their vote and support.
5. The meeting was attended by the Hon. Members/MNAs Ms. Nuzhat Pathan, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Ms. Sobia Kamal Khan, Mr. Muhammad Amjad Farooq Khan Khosa, Syed Fakhar Imam, Ms. Ghazala Saifi, Ms. Uzma Riaz, Ms. Naureen Farooq Ibrahim Khan, Ms. Kiran Imran Dar, Sheikh Rohale Asghar, Chaudhry Abid Raza, Syed Mehmood Shah, Nawabzada Iftakhar Ahmed Khan Babar. In Addition, Honourable Chief Whip PTI, Malik Aamir Doghar, MNA was also present in the meeting.
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The 31" meeting (in-camera) of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir was held today, at Parliament House, Islamabad under the Chairmanship of Makhdoomzada Syed Basit Ahmed Sultan, MNA.
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