Islamabad, July 06: The Chairman of Jammu Kashmir Salvation Movement, Altaf Ahmed Bhat, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Pakistani and Kashmiri-origin politicians who have secured significant victories in the recent British general elections. The results, declared on Thursday, have heralded a new era of diversity in the UK Parliament, with 15 MPs of Pakistani and Kashmiri descent among the 87 elected from ethnic minority backgrounds, making this the most diverse parliament in UK history.
Altaf Ahmed Bhat expressed his immense satisfaction and pride at the achievements of these MPs, acknowledging their hard work and dedication in reaching such esteemed positions. “This victory is not only a personal achievement for these politicians but also a triumph for the entire Pakistani and Kashmiri diaspora,” Bhat stated. “It signifies the strength and unity of our communities and underscores the importance of representation in global political arenas.”
Among those elected, Afzal Khan, Imran Hussain, Naz Shah, Yasmin Qureshi, Muhammad Yasin, Tahir Ali, Shabana Mahmood, Zara Sultana, Dr. Zubair Ahmed, Naushabah Khan, and Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan secured their seats on the Labour Party ticket. Independent candidates Ayoub Khan and Adnan Hussain also emerged victorious, alongside Conservative candidates Saqib Bhatt and Nusrat Ghani.
The Labour Party, which has won a comfortable majority, is now poised to form the government. This outcome is seen as a significant milestone, with Altaf Ahmed Bhat emphasizing the impact of this win on the communities. “The success of these minority group candidates sends a powerful message of hope and prosperity,” Bhat remarked. “It is a testament to the changing landscape of British politics and the increasing acceptance and support for diverse backgrounds.”
Bhat also highlighted the critical expectations placed on these newly-elected MPs. “These lawmakers have garnered major support from constituents who are looking to them to champion the cause of Kashmiris, who continue to face challenges under illegal occupation,” he said. “The increase in pro-Kashmir lawmakers is a positive development, reflecting a broader commitment to justice and self-determination.”
In light of the ongoing situation in Kashmir, Bhat underscored the severe repercussions following the revocation of Articles 370 and 35A by the Modi-led BJP government in India. “Since the revocation, we have witnessed harsh and punitive measures being enforced in the region. Youth are being target-killed, and there has been widespread economic destruction,” Bhat stated. “These actions are part of a systematic attempt to suppress the legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiri people.”
While celebrating the success of these MPs, Bhat noted a significant loss for the Conservative party, with the defeat of six pro-Kashmir MPs from the outgoing parliament, including Paul Bristow, the chair of Conservative Friends of Kashmir. “Bristow’s narrow defeat by just 118 votes is a setback for the Kashmir cause within the Conservative ranks,” Bhat commented. “However, the overall increase in Labour Party members who support Kashmir’s right to self-determination is encouraging.”
Altaf Ahmed Bhat emphasized the responsibility that comes with such victories. “The newly-elected MPs are now the torchbearers for our communities. They must leverage their positions to advocate for the rights of Kashmiris, urging the new Labour government to engage meaningfully with India,” Bhat urged. “The voices of our people must be heard, and their right to decide their future must be recognized and respected.”
Bhat concluded his statement with a call to action for the international community, particularly the British House of Commons. “As we celebrate this historic win, we also remind the world of the ongoing struggles in Kashmir. It is imperative that the British House of Commons intervenes and takes responsibility to resolve the issue of Kashmir as per the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and United Nations resolutions,” he asserted.
The Jammu Kashmir Salvation Movement remains committed to supporting the efforts of these MPs and will continue to advocate for the rights and self-determination of Kashmiris on the global stage.