Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani has expressed deep anguish and concern over the reported worsening condition of Kashmiri prisoners and said they are being ill-treated and subjected to mental and physical torture in jails.He urged the international human rights organisations to take cognisance of the condition of Kashmiri prisoners detained in jails across J&K and India. “Oppression against Kashmiris particularly youth is going on. The inmates in Udhampur Jail are deprived of medical treatment,” Geelani said in a statement issued here.He said the inmates are put in cells in solitary confinements for long periods, deprived of their contact with near and dear ones and also other basic needs. He said the international organisations for human rights must take cognisance of the incarcerated Kashmiri youth and visit these jails.“We have reports from Udhampur Jail that Kashmiri youth are being targeted. They are subjected to worst treatment. The unavailability of medicines and medical care and substandard quality of food is taking a toll on their health,” he said.He said detainees are compelled to use dirty and unhygienic utensils and no proper food as per jail manual is provided to them.
Denouncing the jail superintendent for her “inhuman and harsh” behaviour against detainees, the Hurriyat (G) chairman said she has turned jail into hell and jail mates are pressurised and compelled to participate in “obscene and offensive cultural programmes and dance concerts”.“The jail authorities have let loose the reign of terror and non-Muslim prisoners are being provided free hand to create disturbances during prayer times,” Geelani alleged.“We have reports from police station Bandipora that youth including Mudasir Ahmad Wani, Irfan Ahmad Wani and Abdul Lateef Wani are being tortured and targeted,” he said.Strongly criticising the police behaviour, Geelani said all prisoners languishing in jails are prisoners of conscience. Hailing their sacrifices, Geelani said they are pursuing the right to self-determination through peaceful political means.Hailing prisoners for their sacrifices and commitment, Geelani said the sacrifices rendered by Dr Shafi Shariati, Dr Muhammad Qasim Faktooand others are praiseworthy and said “we are proud of these warriors for their commitment and dedication. They are role model and icons for nation and beacon lights for the ongoing freedom movement”. (GNS)