Today marks 29 years since the brutal killing of Jalil Ahmad Andrabi, a prominent pro-freedom leader and human rights activist from Kashmir. Andrabi, a member of the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) and a staunch advocate for Kashmir’s freedom movement, was martyred while in Indian custody on March 8, 1996.
Born on January 30, 1960, in Pulwama, Andrabi dedicated his life to fighting for human rights in Kashmir. On the day of his abduction, he was taken by Major Avtar Singh of the 5 Rashtriya Rifles under the guise of interrogation. He was subjected to severe torture, which ultimately led to his death. The post-mortem report confirmed the inhumane torture Andrabi had endured, but instead of facing justice, Major Singh was allowed to escape to the United States.
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Andrabi’s extrajudicial killing stands as a symbol of the ongoing human rights violations in Kashmir, with India facing accusations of shielding those responsible for such atrocities. Andrabi was known for exposing these brutalities to international platforms, including the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Even after nearly three decades, Andrabi’s family has not received justice. His martyrdom continues to resonate in the Kashmiri freedom struggle, with people honoring his legacy and vowing to continue resisting India’s occupation, inspired by his ultimate sacrifice for the cause of freedom.
