Rising unemployment pushing Kashmiris into hardship, says Shawl

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th May, 2026) A prominent Kashmiri woman Hurriyat leader Shamim Shawl on Sunday said rising unemployment and withheld wages in IIOJK are creating severe economic pressure on locals, describing the situation as a grave human rights and humanitarian concern.

While speaking to ptv news channel, Kashmiri Hurriyat leader Shamim Shawl expressed deep concern over the worsening socio-economic conditions in IIOJK, highlighting rising unemployment, non-payment of daily wages, and delayed salaries of contract employees.

She said these issues have pushed large sections of the population into severe financial distress and insecurity, describing the situation as a grave human rights concern.

Shamim Shawl alleged that the ongoing economic hardship is forcing people into extreme vulnerability, while basic employment rights are being ignored.

Shamim termed the situation a reflection of systemic neglect, warning that continued economic pressure is worsening public frustration and hardship in the region.

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Shamim Shawl further compared the conditions in Jammu and Kashmir with Azad Kashmir, stating that there is a clear difference in governance, employment opportunities and respect for workers’ rights. She claimed that people in IIOJK are facing greater economic challenges and lack of job security compared to other side.

Prominent leader reiterated that unemployment and unpaid wages are not just economic issues but serious human rights concerns, calling for urgent attention to the plight of daily wagers and contract employees. She stressed that immediate corrective measures are needed to address what she described as growing injustice and deprivation.

She concluded by urging the authorities and the international community to take immediate notice of the worsening situation and ensure protection of workers’ rights, fair employment opportunities, and timely payment of wages in IIOJK.