As the one-year anniversary of India’s decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) approaches, this once-autonomous region remains in the news. Already fraught with friction, relations between India, China, and Pakistan have been further strained due to this geopolitical hotbed. This article explores the various reactions and viewpoints surrounding this issue.
China’s Condemnation
On August 5th, 2019, the President of India issued the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, revoking J&K’s special status under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. China responded by declaring this move “illegal and invalid”, citing the UN Charter, Security Council resolutions, and bilateral agreements between Pakistan and India. They advocated for a peaceful resolution through consultation and dialogue between the concerned parties.
India’s Rebuke
India countered China’s comments asserting that Beijing has “no locus standi” on this matter. They urged China not to interfere in the internal affairs of other nations. Despite this disagreement, India and China continue to hold talks regarding the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
United Nations’ Stance
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has seen the issue of J&K raised thrice in the past year without any significant progress towards a resolution. Human rights experts from the UN have urged India to address human rights concerns in the region. They assert that if India does not investigate and prevent human rights violations, it will invite international intervention.
Amnesty International India’s Findings
Amnesty International, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) known for publicizing human rights violations, has recommended that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the National Commission for Women (NCW) establish offices in J&K. This would enable locals to more easily file complaints about potential human rights abuses. They have also proposed the appointment of a special monitor for the region and urged the Indian government to release all detained political leaders, journalists, and activists.
About Amnesty International
Amnesty International was established in London in 1961. The organization aims to highlight violations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing freedom of speech, freedom of conscience, and the right against torture. The organization also collaborates with intergovernmental human rights bodies to expand and enforce human rights protections in international law. In 1977, they were awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace.