Austrian–German writer discusses Kashmir issue with JKSM chairman

Altaf Bhat thanks Janne Teller for raising human rights violations in IIOJK at international fora

ISLAMABAD:

Renowned writer of Austrian–German origin Janne Teller, who was awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz by Pakistan for raising Kashmir issue, called on Jammu and Kashmir Salvation Movement (JKSM) Chairman Altaf Ahmed Bhat on Saturday.

Bhat thanked her for the dedication and commitment she has shown for the image building of Pakistan and raising human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Janne Teller is a Danish writer of Austrian–German descent, who lives in New York and Berlin. Before she became a full-time writer she used to work as a conflict adviser for EU and UNO, mostly in Africa.

During the meeting, she expressed concerns over grave human rights violations being committed by Indian occupation forces in IIOJK.

The renowned writer said she raised plight of Kashmiris in the Danish parliament and several other forums.

“I have been working on the Kashmir dispute and now I have been recognised by Pakistan for it,” she said.

Also read: 'UNHRC must intervene to stop Indian repression in IIOJK'

On Kashmiris’ right to self-determination as per UN resolutions, Janne Teller said that, "It is all about power, and economically India is more powerful. Western companies have a stake in India economy.”

She said the UN charter guaranteed basic human rights for all humans but they are being violated in different parts of the world including in IIOJK.

“If India continues with the policy of repression, I think they (Indians) are sitting on a boiling kettle, if you lock them up and take away any hope they have of betterment, then they can only rebel. There are several generations who are traumatised,” she said while discussing the plight of Kashmiris.

The JKSM chairman also briefed Teller about the situation in IIOJK since August 5, 2019 when the Indian government abrogated its semi-autonomous status.

He also congratulated her on being awarded Tamgha-e-Pakistan and requested her to create awareness in her academic circle about the Kashmir issue.