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Sindh government spokesperson Sukhdev Assardas Hemnani has called on the international community to take concrete steps to protect the rights of the Kashmiri people and support a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with relevant United Nations resolutions.
Speaking at a press conference on Kashmir Black Day, Hemnani reaffirmed that the people and government of Sindh stand firmly with Kashmiris. He said the dispute is not merely a foreign-policy issue but also concerns fundamental human rights, religious freedom and the right to self-determination.
“The people of Sindh stand with their Kashmiri brothers and sisters. Our position is clear: we will continue to advocate for their rights and ensure that the world does not turn a blind eye to their plight,” he said.
Hemnani referred to reports by Amnesty International, Freedom House and the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF). He said concerns about human rights in Kashmir and the treatment of religious minorities in India required serious international attention.
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According to Hemnani, USCIRF recommended for seven consecutive years, from 2020 to 2026, that the US government designate India as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged severe violations of religious freedom.
He also referred to the commission’s 2026 recommendations for targeted sanctions against individuals and entities, including the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). These recommendations concern alleged responsibility for or tolerance of religious-freedom violations.
“India calls itself the world’s largest democracy, yet its government must answer the serious concerns raised about religious freedom, minority rights and fundamental freedoms in Kashmir,” Hemnani said.
He criticised the policies of the Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and called for continued international scrutiny of its treatment of religious minorities and its policies in Kashmir. He also described Kashmir as an open prison and one of the world’s most militarised territories.
Hemnani contrasted his criticism of India’s policies with Pakistan’s facilitation of religious pilgrims from India. He said access to religious sites demonstrated the importance of protecting religious freedom despite political disputes and periods of conflict.
He cited Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage destinations, including Shadani Darbar, Raharki Sahib, Sadh Belo, Aror Mandir, temples in Nagarparkar, Kartarpur, Nankana Sahib, Katas Raj and Hinglaj Mata.
“I am a Pakistani Hindu. I live freely in this country with my religious identity and participate in its political life. Our message is one of peace, brotherhood and tolerance,” he said.
The Sindh government spokesperson described Kashmir as a national cause that transcends party politics. He reaffirmed the provincial government’s support for Pakistan’s national position on the dispute.
Hemnani said annual rallies and speeches should lead to sustained efforts to present Kashmiri voices and documented human rights concerns before international institutions, policymakers and the media.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that Kashmir does not disappear from the world’s attention. The international community must translate its concern into meaningful action,” he said.
He urged the international community to work towards implementing relevant UN resolutions in accordance with their provisions. He also called for a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
