IAMC statement on arrest of prominent Kashmiri journalist under UAPA

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 22, 2023) – The Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) strongly condemns the arrest of Kashmiri journalist Irfan Meraj under the draconian anti-terror law, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). 

This law has been used to target activists, journalists, and human rights defenders who have spoken out against the government’s policies in Kashmir and other regions of India.

Meraj was a senior editor at the Boston-based TwoCircles.net, founding editor of Wande Magazine, and regularly contributed to various international publications, including Al Jazeera and German public broadcaster Deutsche Welle.

He was arrested on Monday by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in Srinagar and then moved 800kms away to New Delhi, India’s capital city.

This arrest is yet another example of the Indian government’s efforts to stifle dissent and intimidate journalists who speak out against human rights violations in the region. Mr. Meraj is an accomplished journalist who has been reporting on the ground situation in Kashmir for many years. His arrest clearly violates freedom of the press and freedom of expression, which are fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution and international law.

IAMC urges the Indian government to release Mr. Meraj immediately and drop all charges against him. We also call on the international community to speak out against the Indian government’s repression of dissent and to hold it accountable for its human rights violations.

As an organization committed to promoting human rights and religious freedom, IAMC stands in solidarity with Mr. Meraj and all journalists who risk their lives to report the truth. We will continue to monitor the situation in Kashmir and advocate for the rights of all Kashmiris.