Darkest Day: Javed Beigh Slams Pakistan's 1947 Invasion and PoJK Atrocities
Human rights defender Javed Beigh slams Pakistan's 1947 invasion and alleges ongoing oppression and human rights violations in PoJK and PoGB.
Human rights defender Javed Beigh has issued a scathing condemnation of Pakistan’s tribal invasion of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, marking October 22, 1947, as one of the darkest chapters in the region's history. Speaking to ANI, Beigh highlighted the brutality of the Pakistani establishment, alleging a legacy of violence and oppression that continues to plague Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB).
The Horror of 1947: A Legacy of Violence
Beigh recounted the atrocities committed during the 1947 advance, stating that Pakistani forces and tribal fighters did not spare anyone. He alleged that civilians from all faiths—including Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, and Christians—were targeted during the invasion.
Amidst this chaos, Beigh paid a poignant tribute to the figures of Kashmiri resistance. He specifically highlighted the sacrifice of Maqbool Sherwani, who gave his life to protect innocent civilians and preserve the secular fabric of Kashmir. According to Beigh, the bravery of individuals like Sherwani epitomizes the values of communal harmony and humanity.
A Choice for Inclusivity
Reflecting on the political decisions of that era, Beigh argued that the leadership of Jammu and Kashmir chose to align with India in 1947 because of a deep-seated commitment to an inclusive and pluralistic society. He noted that this decision was made despite the region being Muslim-majority, suggesting that Pakistan's military intervention was a direct attempt to dismantle this diverse identity.
Current Crisis in PoJK and PoGB
The condemnation did not stop at historical events. Beigh brought attention to the current plight of residents in PoJK and PoGB, alleging a systemic crackdown on civil liberties and severe political repression.
- Human Rights Violations: Beigh claimed that recent unrest has led to the killing of civilians, with some families still waiting for the return of their loved ones' bodies.
- Political Prisoners: He alleged that thousands of Kashmiris remain imprisoned and expressed grave concern over the detention and unknown whereabouts of Shaukat Nawaz Mir, the chairman of the Joint Action Committee (JAAC).
- Manipulated Governance: The human rights defender criticized the electoral process in the region, claiming that elections are manipulated and that local leaders are mere puppets of the Pakistani establishment and its intelligence agencies.
Economic Hardship and Infrastructure Gap
Beyond political oppression, Beigh pointed to the crumbling quality of life in the occupied territories. He highlighted widespread public anger over the soaring costs of flour and electricity, alongside a general failure to provide basic essential services to the population.
Contrasting this with the situation in Indian Jammu and Kashmir, Beigh pointed to significant strides in development. He cited the growth of tourism, improved access to public institutions, and enhanced railway connectivity as markers of progress. He specifically mentioned the Zojila Tunnel, currently under construction, as a testament to the efforts being made to strengthen connectivity with Ladakh.