Pakistan condemns use of force against Muharram procession in Indian-controlled Kashmir

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday condemned the use of force by Indian police in Kashmir against a procession marking the Muslim month of Muharram.
Police in Sirnagar, the main city of Indian-controlled Kashmir, fired tear gas on Tuesday to disperse hundreds of Shiite Muslims who attempted to participate in the traditional procession to mourn the death of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) grandson.
Media reports and video footage showed steel barricades to block the procession and Indian security forces using batons to beat those participating and journalists covering the event.
“Pakistan strongly condemns use of tear gas shells and firing of warning shots on Muslims taking part in peaceful Muharram procession in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK),” the Pakistani foreign office said in a statement. “Dozens of Kashmiris have reportedly been detained and journalists have also been subjected to baton charge.”
The foreign office reiterated its call on the international community to see India’s rights violations in the Muslim-majority region.
“Imposition of restrictions on Muharram processions represents complete disrespect and deep-rooted prejudice by the Indian government for the sentiments of the Muslims in IIOJK,” the Pakistani foreign office said. “It is also a flagrant violation of Kashmiris’ fundamental right of freedom of religion.”
Main Muharram processions have been banned by India in Kashmir since an armed insurgency broke out in 1989 demanding the region’s independence or merger with Pakistan.
Kashmir is divided between India and Pakistan, which both claim it in full and rule in part. The nuclear-armed neighbors have fought two of their three wars over control of Kashmiri territory.