Kashmiri Activist Stands Firm in UK, Disputes False Narratives on Kashmir

In a bold stance at the British Parliament, Kashmiri activist Yana Mir emphatically declared her safety and freedom in her home country India, dismissing any parallels to the ordeal faced by Malala Yousafzai. Mir’s fiery speech took place during the ‘Sankalp Diwas’ event, where she vehemently rejected Pakistan‘s propaganda aimed at tarnishing India’s global image.

Setting herself apart from the Nobel laureate Yousafzai, who was forced to leave Pakistan due to threats, Mir highlighted her contented existence in Kashmir, an integral part of India. She urged for a halt to the divisive narratives propagated on religious grounds, asserting unity among Indians against external attempts to sow discord.

Associated with the Jammu and Kashmir Youth Society, Yana Mir was a keynote speaker at the ‘Sankalp Diwas’ event organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Study Centre UK (JKSC). She credited Sajid Yousuf Shah, BJP media in-charge of Kashmir, for motivating her participation, particularly after her recent personal loss.

Acknowledging the positive changes post the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Mir highlighted enhanced security measures, governmental initiatives, and increased allocations of funding. She was honoured with the Diversity Ambassador Award for championing diversity in the region.

In a candid YouTube interview, Yana Mir metaphorically referred to Pakistan as an ‘interfering boyfriend’, emphasising the relentless interference despite the perceived peace within the region. This statement reflects her consistent advocacy for the betterment and portrayal of Kashmir within the context of India.