Deeply Concerned, SUN Rights Chief On Kashmir, Raises Assam Also

With the lockdown in Kashmir entering its sixth week, the chief of the United Nations Human Rights Council on Monday said she was deeply concerned about the severe restrictions ordered by the Indian government since it revoked Jammu and Kashmir\’s decades-old special status last month.\I am deeply concerned about the impact of recent actions by the Government of India on the human rights of Kashmiris, including restrictions on internet communications and peaceful assembly, and the detention of local political leaders and activists, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said in her opening statement at the 42nd session of the Human Rights Council.
While I continue to urge the Governments of India and Pakistan to ensure that human rights are respected and protected, I have appealed particularly to India to ease the current lockdowns or curfews; to ensure people\’s access to basic services; and that all due process rights are respected for those who have been detained. It is important that the people of Kashmir are consulted and engaged in any decision-making processes that have an impact on their future.