Mushaal Hussein Mullick, Chairperson of the Peace and Culture Organisation, former Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Human Rights and Women Empowerment, and wife of jailed JKLF Chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik, has strongly condemned the filing of a 737-page chargesheet by India’s State Investigation Agency (SIA) in connection with a 1990 case. Mushaal described the revival of a 36-year-old case as “another chapter in the continued political persecution of Mohammad Yasin Malik” and alleged that it reflects an attempt to prolong what she called judicial harassment against a Kashmiri political leader who has already been serving a life sentence.
Chargesheet Credibility Questioned
Mushaal further questioned the credibility of the chargesheet, noting that several individuals named alongside Yasin Malik had passed away years ago. According to Mushaal, the inclusion of deceased persons raises serious concerns about the integrity and purpose of the proceedings and warrants independent international scrutiny.
Timing of the Case
Mushaal stated that the timing of the case is particularly alarming, coming amid ongoing legal proceedings in which Indian authorities are seeking enhanced punishment against Yasin Malik. She argued that the renewed prosecution appears designed to intensify pressure on him and suppress his political voice.
Renunciation of Violence
Reaffirming her longstanding position, Mushaal said that Mohammad Yasin Malik renounced violence decades ago and adopted peaceful political advocacy. She expressed concern over his continued detention in Tihar Jail, alleging prolonged isolation, restrictions on family access, and the denial of fundamental legal and humanitarian rights.
Appeal to International Community
Calling on the international community to act, Mushaal urged the United Nations, Amnesty International, other international human rights organizations, and democratic governments to closely monitor the proceedings, seek transparency and due process, and ensure that internationally recognized human rights standards are upheld.
“The world cannot remain silent while legal processes are, in our view, used to target political dissent. Justice must be impartial, transparent, and consistent with international law. The rights and dignity of all detainees must be protected,” Mushaal said.
