The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is being observed today, with a particular focus on the situation in Indian-administered Kashmir. According to reports, over 10,000 individuals have been subjected to enforced disappearances in the region during the period of Indian control.
Human rights organizations express concerns about thousands of unmarked graves discovered in Kashmir, suggesting they may belong to victims of enforced disappearances. The United Nations has repeatedly warned India about human rights violations in the region.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in his message for the day, emphasized that families have the right to know the fate of their loved ones under international human rights laws.
The Kashmir Media Service reports that thousands of Kashmiris have been victims of enforced disappearances over the past 34 years. The situation has reportedly worsened since August 6, 2019, when India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.
Human rights organizations worldwide continue to raise concerns about the actions of Indian forces in Kashmir.