UN human rights experts call for the release of Kashmir-based activist Khurram Parvez

Claiming Kashmir-based rights defender Khurram Parvez to be a victim of reprisals for reportedly sharing information on human rights violations with the UN, United Nations human rights experts on Wednesday sought his release, reports The Hindu. Parvez was arrested by the National Investigation Agency under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) on November 22. He is currently detained at the Rohini Jail complex.

The UN independent experts expressed concern at Parvez's arrest for his 'legitimate activities as a rights defender'. They added that he was arrested for speaking out against these violations to the UN as documented in various reports of the Secretary-General and communication from UN special procedures mandate holders.

"In view of this context of previous reprisals, we call on the Indian authorities to immediately release him and ensure his rights to liberty and security," they said.

Slamming the draconian UAPA act, the experts said that UAPA is being used as a 'means of coercion' tO restrict the fundamental freedoms of the civil society, the media and human rights defenders in Jammu and Kashmir and the remaining country. They further urged the Indian government to align the legislation with international human rights law.