India Wants To Suppress All Kashmiri Voices

Exclusive Interview/ Syed Salahuddin, supreme commander, Hizbul Mujahideen.

- Tariq Bhat

Peer Muhammad Yousuf Shah alias Syed Salahuddin is the supreme commander of Kashmir’s largest militant group, the Hizbul Mujahideen. He is also the chairman of United Jihad Council, a coalition of militant groups fighting in Kashmir. Last year, the United States named him a specially designated global terrorist. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, the 72-year-old militant commander spoke at length about the American move, on the conflict in Kashmir and the prospects for peace.

Excerpts: The United States has declared you a global terrorist.

It will not change the disputed status of Kashmir. This declaration is to appease India. It has not come as a surprise to us, nor will it render illegal the just struggle in Kashmir. Alongside the political and diplomatic fronts, Kashmiris continue to wage a struggle on the military front, for their right of self-determination under UN resolutions. However, the use of force against innocent civilians, women, and children is prohibited in our religion.

The steps announced by America have not and will not have any impact on us. Azad Kashmir (Pakistan-occupied Kashmir), politically and morally, has the status of a base camp for us. Since the territory is under Pakistan’s control and Pakistan being a key party to the dispute, it continues to support us politically and diplomatically.

Some analysts say your designation as a global terrorist will give a boost to Islamic State and Al Qaeda sympathisers in Kashmir.

That is not right. Daesh (Islamic State) and Al Qaeda have almost no presence in Kashmir. However, some Indian agencies are trying to use some unsuspecting youngsters to create a situation for civil war in Kashmir, which did not and will not succeed.

Is there pressure from the Pakistani government or military to stop your activities in Pakistan, after the US move?