British Hindus Protest at Oxford Union, Condemn Debate on Kashmir Over Alleged 'Terror-Links' of Speakers

London: On Friday, members of INSIGHT UK, a social movement representing British Hindus and Indians in the United Kingdom, gathered in protest outside Oxford Union, the debating society at Oxford University. The demonstration was sparked by Oxford Union's recent debate titled "This House Believes in the Independent State of Kashmir." Protestors voiced strong opposition, chanting slogans like, "It is known far and wide, Oxford Union stands on terrorists' side," highlighting their discontent with the event and the speakers involved.

In a public post, INSIGHT UK reiterated their stance on Kashmir, stating, "Jammu Kashmir WAS India, Jammu Kashmir IS India, Jammu Kashmir WILL BE India," emphasizing their firm belief in India's sovereignty over the region.

Prior to the protest, INSIGHT UK had formally raised concerns with the Oxford Union Society, submitting a letter questioning the selection of speakers for the debate. The organization highlighted the alleged connections of speakers Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur and Zafar Khan to violent extremism and groups associated with terrorism, arguing that these associations undermined the credibility and safety of the discussion.

The letter pointed specifically to Muzzammil Ayyub Thakur, who, according to INSIGHT UK, has been accused of incitement, hate speech, and associations with organizations that have come under scrutiny for terrorism-related activities. Thakur is known for his role as president of the "World Kashmir Freedom Movement" and co-founder of "Mercy Universal," both of which have reportedly faced investigations by Scotland Yard, the UK's Charity Commission, and the FBI.

The organization further alleged that Thakur's activities have been under investigation for potentially inciting public disorder. He is reportedly charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, a law designed to address activities deemed a threat to public safety.

INSIGHT UK’s letter also expressed concerns over Zafar Khan, chairman of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), a group linked with violent incidents affecting the Kashmiri Hindu community. The JKLF, according to the letter, has a history of incidents, including the 1984 kidnapping and murder of Indian diplomat Ravindra Mhatre in the UK.

INSIGHT UK’s protest outside Oxford Union emphasized its dedication to advocating for the interests and concerns of British Hindus and Indians in the UK, highlighting the need for respectful and unbiased dialogue on international issues like Kashmir.

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