By Asian Marxist Review (AMR)
The Bangladesh Youth Union (BYU) has strongly condemned the reported killings, arbitrary arrests, and escalating state repression against the people of Jammu Kashmir following the violent crackdown on the Joint Awami Action Committee’s (JAAC) peaceful long march.
In a statement issued from Dhaka on 28 July, the youth organisation expressed grave concern over reports that security forces opened fire and used tear gas against protesters in Rawalakot on 27 and 28 July. According to BYU, the violence resulted in significant loss of life and left hundreds of people injured. The organisation condemned the use of lethal force against peaceful demonstrators and described the crackdown as an attempt to suppress legitimate democratic demands.
BYU also raised alarm over reports of an internet and communications blackout, arguing that such restrictions isolate the population, obstruct the free flow of information, and hinder independent reporting on developments in the region. The organisation further expressed concern over reports of arbitrary arrests and disruptions to access to food, medicine, and medical treatment.
Calling for immediate action, BYU demanded an end to the violence against peaceful protesters, the unconditional release of Shaukat Nawaz Mir and all other political detainees arrested in connection with the movement, and the immediate restoration of internet and communication services. It also called for unrestricted access to food, medicine, and healthcare, as well as an independent, transparent, and impartial investigation into the reported killings, injuries, arrests, and allegations of excessive use of force.
The Bangladeshi youth organisation reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Jammu Kashmir, particularly the workers, students, farmers, youth, and democratic forces participating in the ongoing movement. It also paid tribute to the role of the Jammu Kashmir National Students Federation (JKNSF) in organising and sustaining the struggle.
Concluding its statement, BYU appealed to left-wing and socialist parties, trade unions, student and youth organisations, progressive movements, and human rights organisations around the world to stand in solidarity with the people of Jammu Kashmir and speak out against the reported repression.
The statement adds to a growing wave of international solidarity from labour, student, and progressive organisations calling for the protection of democratic rights and accountability for the reported violence in Jammu Kashmir.
