August 13th, 2019
Statement by Member of Parliament Iqra Khalid regarding the Ongoing Situation in Kashmir
As a Member of Parliament, I have the responsibility and the privilege of being the voice of the voiceless. As a member of the International Human rights subcommittee, I have shed light on human rights issues around the world as they arise, whether it be for the Rohingya minorities, the people of Burundi, or persecuted Christian minorities.
Hearing first-hand experiences of human rights violations from affected peoples around the world has led me to a deeper understanding and respect for the role that human rights play in maintaining peace and harmony in any region. I have and will continue to advocate for human rights here in Canada and globally because I have seen the difference we can make.
This past week, I have heard many voices in my riding of Mississauga – Erin Mills raise their concerns for the people of Kashmir. The people of Kashmir are a vibrant and thriving community that is worth protecting. I am concerned for their ongoing conditions as they reportedly face curfews, limited access to food supplies, and no access to telephone or internet.
The Government of Canada is deeply concerned about escalations and report of detentions. They are closely monitoring the situation as it calls for all parties to maintain peace and respect for human rights.
The people of Kashmir have suffered for too long. It is time for all parties and the international community to sit together and find a peaceful solution that preserves and protects the rights of innocent Kashmiri people. As shown by multiple UNSC resolutions, one of which Canada co-sponsored, there is clearly a path forward for this issue to be resolved in a peaceful and just manner. This must be done by putting a focus on safeguarding the human rights of the people of Kashmir.
Thank you to the many people who have contacted me. Alongside my colleagues, I will continue to listen to and advocate for the concerns of Kashmiri-Canadians.
Sincerely,
Iqra Khalid
Member of Parliament for Mississauga-Erin Mills
Mon: | 10:00AM - 5:00PM |
Tue: | 10:00AM - 5:00PM |
Wed: | 10:00AM - 5:00PM |
Thu: | 10:00AM - 5:00PM |
Fri: | 10:00AM - 5:00PM |
Sat: | Closed |
Sun: | Closed |