ISLAMABAD: A court in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir has sentenced senior Hurriyat leader Asiya Andrabi to life imprisonment, in a verdict that has sparked widespread criticism and concern over human rights in the disputed region.
According to reports, Andrabi, who heads the Dukhtaran-e-Millat, was handed a life sentence that will remain in force for the rest of her life. Her close associates, Nahida Nasreen and Fahmeeda Sofi, were also sentenced to 30 years in prison each.
The three women have long been associated with advocacy concerning Kashmir’s political future, and their sentencing is being viewed by observers as a significant development amid ongoing tensions in the region.
In a related context, Andrabi’s husband, Dr Qasim Faktoo, is already serving a life sentence, making them among the rare couples in the region to both be imprisoned for life.
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference strongly condemned the verdict, terming it a “murder of justice.” In a statement, the group said the decision reflects broader concerns regarding the human rights situation in Indian-administered Kashmir and alleged violations of international legal norms.
The organisation also urged international human rights bodies, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, to take notice of the development and raise concerns with Indian authorities.
It further called on the Government of Pakistan to pursue the matter through diplomatic, political, and legal channels.
Analysts and observers have expressed concern that long prison sentences for political figures could further heighten tensions in the region rather than contribute to stability.
The development comes amid renewed international focus on the Kashmir dispute, with increasing calls for adherence to global human rights and humanitarian standards.