News Article: Srinagar — On Monday morning, an influential social activist was gunned down in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s (IIOJK) Kupwara District by Indian forces, prompting widespread outrage and grief across Kashmir and India.
Based on reports by local media and eyewitness accounts, activist Irfan Ahmad (35 years old), known for his humanitarian work and efforts to highlight human rights violations was targeted during an operation carried out by Indian forces in Kupwara border district. Residents claimed he was detained during a search operation before being murdered under what many believe were extrajudicial circumstances.
Authorities confirmed the death of Ahmad but provided few details on how or why. Indian security forces claimed he was caught between gunfire during an “anti-militancy operation”, an allegation which has been strongly challenged by local leaders and human rights organizations.
“The death of Irfan Ahmad serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers facing both activists and civilians in IIOJK,” stated a representative for All Parties Hurriyat Conference. Those speaking out for justice and human rights are increasingly silenced by authorities.
Ahmad was widely respected for his work with displaced families and advocacy of peaceful resistance against human rights abuses in his region. Following his death, many residents gathered at his family home to pay respects, chanting slogans demanding justice in his honor.
“India has employed every form of oppression against Kashmiris,” stated an anonymous elder from Kashmir, fearful of reprisals against peaceful activism such as Irfan’s. His death indicates just how threatened India is of even peaceful activism.
International human rights organizations have repeatedly demanded India protect civilians and activists in Kashmir. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have documented numerous instances of enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, and purported extrajudicial killings within this disputed territory.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office denounced the killing, calling it “an act reflective of India’s ongoing violations to human rights in IIOJK.” Islamabad called on the international community, including the UN, to immediately address this situation.
As tensions continue to escalate, Ahmad’s martyrdom will likely amplify calls for international intervention and dialogue on Kashmir’s long-standing dispute. His funeral, attended by hundreds despite heavy military presence, became an open display of widespread fury among Kashmiris.