Srinagar, Kashmir – As journalist and human rights defender Irfan Mehraj faces a third year in detention tomorrow, a growing chorus of international organizations is demanding his immediate and unconditional release. Mehraj, a prominent voice reporting on human rights issues in Jammu and Kashmir, was detained by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) on March 20, 2023, under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The case against Mehraj, and the continued detention of human rights activist Khurram Parvez, highlight a concerning pattern of repression targeting journalists and civil society in the region.
The arrest of Irfan Mehraj, who contributes to Deutsche Welle and publications like The Indian Express, TRT World, and The Wire, has sparked widespread condemnation. According to the NIA, Mehraj was arrested for being a “close associate” of Khurram Parvez, the Program Coordinator of the Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society (JKCCS). Parvez himself has been detained for over four years on similar politically motivated charges, according to Amnesty International and other rights groups. This case underscores the increasing restrictions placed on independent reporting and advocacy work in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly since the unilateral abrogation of the region’s statehood in August 2019.
A Pattern of Repression in Kashmir
The detentions of Mehraj and Parvez are not isolated incidents. Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have increasingly used the UAPA – a law widely criticized by human rights organizations as draconian – and the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act (PSA) to silence dissent and criminalize journalistic work. The PSA allows for detention without trial for extended periods, raising serious concerns about due process and fundamental rights. In recent months, police have reportedly harassed journalists through repeated interrogations and demands to sign agreements restricting their reporting, specifically requiring them to refrain from anything that might “disturb peace,” as reported by Newslaundry.
This crackdown on press freedom extends beyond intimidation tactics. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is among the organizations voicing concern over the deteriorating environment for journalists in the region. The broader context includes a history of restrictions on media access and a climate of fear that discourages critical reporting. Mehraj’s work, which often focused on the challenges facing the Muslim community in Kashmir, made him a target, according to those familiar with the case.
The Case Against Irfan Mehraj
The NIA alleges that Mehraj was involved with the JKCCS, accusing the organization of funding terrorist activities and promoting a “secessionist agenda” under the guise of human rights work. These allegations have been strongly refuted by human rights defenders and international observers, who maintain that the JKCCS is a legitimate organization dedicated to documenting human rights violations in the region. The accusations against Mehraj stem from an investigation into alleged terror funding linked to non-governmental organizations, as detailed in The Indian Express.
The lack of transparency surrounding the investigation and the prolonged detention without charge have fueled concerns about a politically motivated prosecution. Mehraj’s supporters point to his consistent and credible reporting on sensitive issues as the real reason for his arrest. He previously served as Editor of Two Circles and founding editor of Wande Magazine, platforms known for their independent coverage of social and political issues.
International Calls for Release
A joint statement issued by over 40 civil society organizations, including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Reporters Without Borders (RSF), calls for Mehraj’s immediate and unconditional release. The organizations also urge the Indian authorities to repeal the UAPA and the PSA, and to create an environment where civil society and the media can operate freely. The statement highlights the Indian government’s failure to respond to concerns raised by United Nations experts regarding human rights violations in Kashmir.
The international community is being urged to pressure India to comply with its international human rights obligations. The signatories of the statement emphasize that as India seeks to strengthen its relationships with other nations, it must demonstrate a commitment to upholding fundamental freedoms. The case of Irfan Mehraj, they argue, is a litmus test for India’s respect for human rights and the rule of law.
The ongoing detention of Irfan Mehraj and Khurram Parvez serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists and human rights defenders in Jammu, and Kashmir. The situation demands greater scrutiny and a concerted effort from the international community to advocate for their release and to protect fundamental freedoms in the region.
As of this writing, Mehraj remains in detention, with his next court appearance scheduled for April 15, 2026. The outcome of this hearing will be a critical moment in determining his fate and signaling India’s commitment to upholding human rights. Readers can stay informed about this case and advocate for Irfan Mehraj’s release by following updates from organizations like Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the emotional impact of these events, resources are available. You can find support and information from organizations like the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).
