New Delhi, March 25: A Delhi court has sentenced Kashmiri separatist leader Asiya Andrabi, head of the banned organization ‘Dukhtran-e-Millat’, to life imprisonment under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The court found her guilty of leading a banned organization and conspiring to wage war against India. This verdict has drawn a sharp response from Pakistan, which condemned the judicial decision as an interference in India’s internal matters.
In this case, the Delhi court also sentenced Andrabi’s associates, Sofi Fahmida and Nahida Nasreen, to 30 years each. Pakistan has denounced the sentences given to Andrabi, Fahmida, and Nasreen, while reiterating its call for international attention to human rights in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Pakistani Foreign Ministry stated on social media platform X, “Pakistan completely rejects the life sentence given to prominent Kashmiri leader Asiya Andrabi and the harsh 30-year sentences for her associates under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. This decision is a grave miscarriage of justice and reflects the ongoing repression of fundamental rights in Jammu and Kashmir.”
Pakistan has consistently attempted to intervene in India’s internal affairs and seeks to highlight these issues on international platforms. The latest comments from the Foreign Ministry indicate that while Pakistan struggles with its declining economy, its focus remains on India.
The Foreign Ministry further stated, “Pakistan views this decision as part of a larger pattern of politically motivated prosecutions aimed at silencing dissenting voices and intimidating those advocating for the legitimate rights of the Kashmiri people. This sentence raises serious concerns about due process, judicial independence, and adherence to international human rights obligations.”
Pakistan argues that Asiya Andrabi has long been a vocal supporter of the Kashmir issue. Her sentencing and the harsh penalties reflect a diminishing space for political dissent and civil liberties in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan believes such actions escalate tensions and undermine hopes for peace and stability in South Asia.
While remaining silent on ongoing attacks in West Asia, Pakistan contends that sentencing a legally proven offender in India undermines peace and stability in the region. Such statements often lead to embarrassment for Pakistan on the global stage.