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Scholar Exposes Pak-Backed Civilian Killings in Poonch at UN Rights Council

An Islamic scholar addressed the UN Human Rights Council, detailing the human cost of cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch region. He cited over 100 civilian deaths between 2021 and 2023, attributing them to Pakistan-based militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba. Specific brutal attacks, including one in Rajouri that killed seven and injured twelve, were highlighted to demonstrate the targeting of non-combatants. The intervention concluded with a call for the international community to hold responsible actors accountable and prevent further harm.

Key Points: UNHRC Hears of Pakistan-Linked Civilian Killings in Jammu & Kashmir

  • Over 100 civilian deaths 2021-2023
  • Recent LeT-linked killing cited
  • 2023 Rajouri attack killed 7, injured 12
  • Violence disrupts economy and livelihoods
  • Call for international accountability
2 min read

Scholar flags Pak-backed civilian killings in Poonch at UNHRC Session

Islamic scholar details over 100 civilian deaths from 2021-2023, citing specific attacks by Pakistan-based terror groups in Poonch and Rajouri.

"the killing of one innocent person is akin to killing all of humanity - Quran, Chapter 5, Verse 32"

Geneva, March 18

An oral intervention at the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva brought renewed focus to the ongoing impact of cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly incidents linked to groups based in Pakistan.

Speaking on behalf of residents of the Poonch region, Basharat Hussain, an Islamic scholar from Jammu and Kashmir, highlighted the significant human toll of continued violence. He stated that between 2021 and 2023, over 100 individuals lost their lives in terror-related incidents attributed to Pakistan-based groups, pointing to a persistent pattern of civilian targeting.

Citing recent cases, he referred to the April 2024 killing of Mohammad Razzaq, a civilian from the Thanamandi area, allegedly carried out by militants associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba. He described the incident as part of a broader strategy aimed at instilling fear and destabilising local communities.

He also highlighted a 2023 attack in Rajouri district, where armed militants entered residential homes, opened indiscriminate fire, and detonated an improvised explosive device (IED). The assault resulted in seven civilian deaths and left twelve others injured, including women, elderly individuals, and children. Several victims were minors, underscoring the indiscriminate and brutal nature of the attack.

Beyond the immediate casualties, Hussain stressed the long-term consequences of such violence. Repeated attacks, he noted, have disrupted daily life, weakened local businesses, and placed immense strain on families already coping with insecurity.

He further emphasised that while the people of the region aspire for peace and development, the actions of Pakistan-based terrorist groups have severely impacted the local economy and livelihoods, pushing many families into hardship.

Highlighting the moral dimension, he quoted the Quran (Chapter 5, Verse 32), which underscores the sanctity of human life by stating that the killing of one innocent person is akin to killing all of humanity. He noted that such teachings stand in direct opposition to acts of violence against civilians.

He concluded by calling on the international community to take serious note of these incidents, recognise the role of Pakistan-based terrorist networks, and ensure accountability for those responsible, to prevent further harm to innocent civilians.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Heartbreaking to read about the children and elderly being targeted. No political agenda justifies this. The scholar quoting the Quran is powerful – true faith is about protecting life, not taking it. More voices like his are needed.
V
Vikram M
Finally, someone is speaking up at the UNHRC. We've been saying this for years. The cross-border terror machinery needs to be dismantled. Our armed forces are doing their part, but diplomatic pressure is crucial.
S
Sarah B
As an outsider following this, the data is shocking. Over 100 lives in just a few years? The economic impact on families is a tragedy layered on top of the violence. The international community really needs to step up.
R
Rohit P
While I agree with the core message, I wish our own media gave this as much coverage as they give to other issues. The plight of our citizens in border areas should be front-page news every day until it stops.
K
Kavya N
The attack in Rajouri district sent chills down my spine. Entering homes? It's pure cowardice. My heart goes out to the families. We stand with you. 🙏 Hope the UNHRC session leads to some concrete action for once.

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