In a stark reminder of the ongoing violence in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Indian forces martyred 84 Kashmiris in 2025, a new report has revealed, raising serious concerns among civil rights advocates over rising civilian casualties and human rights violations.
According to data released by the Kashmiri Research Section, 34 of those killed were reportedly slain in alleged fake encounters or while in custody, including three women and seven young boys. The killings left at least 11 women widowed and 33 children orphaned in the disputed region.
The report also highlighted that Indian security operations saw the demolition of 41 residential properties and the detention of 7,488 Kashmiris, including youth, doctors, journalists, religious scholars, and political activists, many booked under controversial laws such as the Public Safety Act and Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.
Amid these grim statistics, the humanitarian situation in Kashmir continues to draw international attention. Rights groups have previously called for greater protection of civilians amidst rising hostilities between India and Pakistan, underscoring the urgent need for de-escalation and adherence to international humanitarian law.
“Persistent military operations and arbitrary detentions have stripped basic rights from the Kashmiri people,” said a spokesperson for a local advocacy group, urging immediate global action and implementation of United Nations resolutions on the territory’s political future.
In the broader context of regional challenges, access to quality healthcare has also been a pressing issue in Kashmir. Recent developments, such as the establishment of a first-of-its-kind cancer hospital bringing hope to patients in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, highlight efforts to improve crucial public services amid ongoing conflict.
Human rights observers warn that unless meaningful steps are taken to protect civilians and address political grievances, the cycle of violence and loss, including the tragic toll of the 84 Kashmiris martyred in 2025, may continue well into the future.
