Kashmir activist and journalist released on bail after years in custody

Indian authorities have released Kashmiri human rights activist Khurram Parvez and journalist Irfan Mehraj on bail after they spent years in custody under terrorism related charges. Their families confirmed that both men were released from a prison in New Delhi late on Wednesday following a court order, although strict bail conditions will keep them in the capital while their trial continues.

Parvez, a well known human rights defender and programme coordinator of the Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society, was arrested by India’s National Investigation Agency in November 2021 from his home in Srinagar. Mehraj, a freelance journalist who also worked with the same rights organisation, was arrested in 2023.

Both men have been charged under India’s anti terrorism laws with allegedly financing terrorism and promoting separatist activities. The legislation allows authorities to detain suspects for long periods without trial and has frequently been criticised by rights organisations for its broad powers.

Although they have now been granted bail, their freedom remains limited. Court conditions require both Parvez and Mehraj to stay in New Delhi during the legal proceedings. They are not permitted to return to Kashmir and must arrange their own accommodation in the capital while attending court hearings. Indian investigators had challenged the decision to grant bail, but a higher court upheld the order.

The Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society has spent many years documenting alleged human rights violations in the region. The organisation has published reports on cases involving torture, unlawful killings, enforced disappearances, and unmarked graves in areas affected by the long running conflict. Its work has often drawn international attention and placed it at the centre of debates over human rights in Kashmir.

Parvez has received support from several international human rights organisations that have repeatedly called for his release. In 2023, the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention described his arrest as retaliation for his human rights activities. The UN experts said the detention appeared intended to silence both Parvez and wider civil society efforts in Kashmir.

The case has also renewed attention on press freedom in the region. Journalists working in Indian administered Kashmir have reported increasing restrictions, surveillance, and legal action since the Indian government revoked the region’s special constitutional status in 2019. Several media workers and activists say they have faced questioning, arrests, or pressure while reporting on political and security issues.

The Indian government maintains that its actions are necessary to combat terrorism and protect national security. Officials argue that the anti terrorism laws are an essential tool in dealing with militant groups operating in the region. However, critics say the legislation has increasingly been used against journalists, activists, and civil society members who peacefully document human rights concerns.

Government figures show that more than 3,600 people were arrested under anti terrorism laws in Kashmir between 2019 and 2023. More than half of those detained remain in prison while awaiting legal proceedings, highlighting concerns over lengthy pre trial detention.

The release of Parvez and Mehraj has been welcomed by rights advocates, but legal proceedings against both men continue. They will remain in New Delhi under the conditions set by the court until their trial reaches its conclusion. Their cases are expected to remain closely watched by international human rights organisations and press freedom groups as they continue to raise concerns about civil liberties and legal protections in Indian administered Kashmir.