New Delhi: Scores of students, rights activists and lawyers today took out a silent march at Jantar Mantar against the recent killings of civilians and a policeman in clashes between protesters and security forces in Kashmir.
The participants carried placards denouncing pellet injuries caused to several youths in the Valley. They urged the government to initiate dialogue and repeal AFSPA to find a peaceful political solution to the Kashmir issue.
Kashmir turned restive following the gunning down of Hizbul poster boy Burhan Wani by security forces last week.
The demonstrators, wearing black bands, held placards bearing names of each of those killed in the streets of Kashmir. The toll in the violence has gone up to 34.
JNUSU Vice-President Shehla Rashid, who also took part in the march, said unless the government works for a long-term political solution to the Kashmir issue in keeping with the wishes of the Kashmiri people, such events will keep happening.
Secretary of All India Progressive Women’s Association, Kavita Krishnan, appealed to people to open their hearts and minds to the voices of the Kashmiri people.
Several filmmakers, writers, mediapersons, activists and a large number of students of Delhi University and JNU participated in the protest.