US congresswoman urges India to end blockade in Occupied Kashmir

Reports of violence, torture in Kashmir are 'extremely concerning, says Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

ISLAMABAD: Joining the chorus of American lawmakers, another US congressperson has voiced solidarity with the people of Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK), saying "blockade from communication and life-saving medical care must end".

In a Twitter post, Democratic congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said: "We stand for the basic human dignity of Kashmiris & support democracy, equality, and human rights for all - including the most vulnerable."

The disputed Himalayan valley has been under lockdown since August 5 when Prime Minister Modi-led government revoked its special status and imposed severe restrictions including curfew and communication blockade along with deploying thousands of additional occupation forces to head off protests against its illegal move.

Expressing her serious concerns over the human rights violations by Indian forces in the Muslim-majority state, the lawmaker said "reports of violence and torture are "extremely concerning”.

She also shared a video posted by a user, in which she can be seen participating in a "solidarity march" on Kashmir and scribbling a message on a huge coloured chart board.

We stand for the basic human dignity of Kashmiris & support democracy, equality, and human rights for all - including the most vulnerable.

Reports of violence & torture are extremely concerning, and the blockade from communication and life-saving medical care must end. https://t.co/EHWHIdexwe

— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) September 30, 2019

"Our entire community's prayers and support are with the families of Kashmir, as we work to establish peace and justice there and throughout the world,” the congresswoman had written on the chart board.

Ocasio-Cortez stands out in American politics by her determination to avoid accepting lobbyist money for her campaigns.

US delegation meets foreign minister

Earlier in the day, a delegation of US Congressmen called on Foreign Minister Qureshi and discussed with him the bilateral relations, the situation in occupied Kashmir as well as other matters of mutual interest.



During the meeting, Qureshi informed the Demoratic party congressmen that Pakistan valued its relationship with the US. “Both the countries have jointly fought terrorism, and faced the regional challenges together,” he said.

Both sides agreed to boost their cooperation in trade and other areas. Qureshi said that the Pakistan government had introduced a new visa regime to facilitate the businessmen. He also highlighted greater business opportunities in Pakistan.

The foreign minister stressed the need for the world community to play its role for the lifting of restriction imposed by the Indian government on occupied Kashmir, which was continuing for the past 58 days.

The foreign minister said Pakistan would continue to play its due role for regional peace. He reminded the delegation that Prime Minister Imran Khan during his recent visit to the US emphasised the need for resumption of talks with the Taliban.

With additional input from Anadolu Agency