Chairman Hurriyat Conference (G) Syed Ali Geelani has welcomed the decision of Pakistan to allow United Nations Commission for assessment of human rights in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.“It is a welcome development that Pakistan has agreed to allow UNHRC to visit Azad Kashmir as proposed in a recent UN report to Pakistan-administered Kashmir,” Geelani said in a statement issued to GNS.He welcomed the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) report’s recommendation for an independent, International Commission of Inquiry on Kashmir.“It is a welcome step,” said Geelani, adding India must not shy away from this international obligation if it has nothing to hide.Geelani expressed his satisfaction over the UNHRC report about the “detailed atrocities perpetrated by Indian forces, SOG, and other armed personnel in occupied Jammu and Kashmir”.“Until Kashmir issue is resolved, the dance of death and destruction will not end,” Hurriyat (G) chairman said and stressed upon the world body to fulfill its commitments made to the people through the implementation of its Security Council resolutions.He urged the UN General Secretary to use his good offices to take steps for the peaceful resolution of Kashmir and for putting an end to bloodshed in the state. He expressed hope that world leadership will play a positive role regarding Kashmir dispute by taking practical steps towards finding its solution.
Meanwhile, Geelani expressed his deep grief over civilian killings in Srigufwara, Anantnag and extended his condolences to the bereaved family of slain civilian Mohammad Yusuf Rather.He paid tributes to slain “brave-hearts” and blamed “stubborn attitude” of Indian authorities for continuous bloodshed.“Since last several decades, people in the state are facing a war-like situation. People are facing extreme situations and are braving bullets, pellets, and atrocities at the hands of arrogant forces,” he said.“India is pushing youth to the wall and compelling them to take extreme steps,” Geelani said.Meanwhile, Hurriyat (G) on Friday staged a protest against the civilian killings and unabated human rights violations, at Hyderpora here.Meanwhile, Hurriyat (G) spokesperson said Syed Ali Geelani was not allowed to offer Friday congregational prayers.“Geelani is not being allowed to offer Friday prayers since past 8 years and his residence has been turned into a jail,” he said adding that the pro-freedom leader was stopped after he defied house arrest restrictions.“The police posted outside his residence did not allow him to venture out to offer Friday prayers,” he said, adding, “We will never surrender or succumb to pressure but will pursue our cherished mission till it is taken to its logical conclusion.” (GNS)