Euro-MP Renews Call for Investigation In To Human Rights Abuses In Kashmir

4.09.32pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 27th Apr 2005

Liz Lynne meeting President Sardar Mohammad Anwar Kahn of Azad Jammu and Kashmir

The European Parliament is today discussing Kashmir as part of a report on human rights in the world.

Member of the Parliament's Human Rights Committee Liz Lynne MEP submitted an amendment to the report highlighting claims of extra judicial executions in Kashmir, renewed her call for the Indian Government to investigate these reports.

The Liberal Democrat Euro-MP said:

"Reports of continuing cases of torture in police and security forces custody, "disappearance" of victims from such custody, and extra judicial executions in Kashmir are a constant source of worry

"Rights groups estimate around 5000 people have disappeared since 1990. Most people reported missing were last seen when police or security forces took them into custody. Victims' families have yet to get any concrete answer about their whereabouts of their relatives from the agencies.

"The Indian Government must launch an investigation in to these claims. It will be difficult to persuade the Kashmiri people of any peace process while these reports continue."

The debate comes while the President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Mr Sardar Mohammad Anwar Kahn is visiting the European Parliament to commemorate Kashmir EU week.

Liz Lynne who was one of the MEPs who met with the President today said:

"I would like to welcome the President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir to the European Parliament as it is important to get his views on what the EU can do to help achieve a peaceful settlement for the area.

"Kashmir EU week is a good way to get the European Union more involved in helping to secure lasting peace for the Kashmiri people. Kashmiris have been stuck in middle of the conflict between India and Pakistan for decades and the International community must not forget about them.

"Recent developments such as the new bus service are of course welcome. However it is important that the Kashmiri people are consulted more on the peace process. Whatever Pakistan and India decide the final say must be with the people of Kashmir - there cannot be a settlement without their agreement."

ENDS

Notes To Editors

Photograph attached of Liz Lynne with President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir at the European Parliament today.