KOA President Uphaar Kotru Keynotes Congressional Briefing on Pakistan's Proxy War Against Hindus

KOA President Uphaar Kotru speaks at a Congressional Briefing on May 5, 2025 at the U.S. Capitol titled "Pakistan's Proxy War Against Hindus: Global Implications"

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Kashmiri Overseas Association (KOA) co-organized a critical Congressional Briefing with HinduACTion and the Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora (GKPD) at the U.S. Capitol on May 5, 2025. Titled “Pakistan’s Proxy War Against Hindus: Global Implications,” the event urgently addressed the growing threat of Pakistan-sponsored jihadist groups targeting the Hindu community. The recent brutal massacre of 26 Hindus in Jammu and Kashmir underscored the gravity of this escalating crisis.

KOA has historically been a leading voice in advocating for the rights and justice for Kashmiri Hindus, most recently with its ongoing nationwide vigils and public advocacy efforts culminating in this powerful event, underscoring their unwavering commitment to human rights and international accountability.

The gravity of the issue was underscored by a panel of distinguished speakers, including leading foreign policy experts, impassioned human rights advocates, and influential community leaders. Among them, Mr. Uphaar Kotru, President of KOA, delivered a compelling keynote address, lending both his personal experience and insightful analysis to this urgent matter. Further amplifying the call for justice and recognition of the Kashmiri Pandit genocide, Dr. Surinder Kaul, Co-Founder of GKPD, shared his organization's powerful perspective. The briefing also benefited from the presence and remarks of Congressman Shri Thanedar (MI-13), highlighting the bipartisan concern surrounding this critical issue.

Drawing upon the historical persecution faced by Kashmiri Hindus and the devastating exodus of 1990, Kotru powerfully articulated the ongoing threats faced by his community. "35 years later, my community still lives as refugees, prevented from returning due to persistent threats from radical Islamists," he stated, emphasizing the enduring insecurity that continues to plague Kashmiri Hindus. He further highlighted the recent Pahalgam attack as a stark reminder of the targeted violence against non-Muslims in the region.

Kotru did not limit his address to the plight of Kashmiri Hindus alone, but contextualized it within the broader framework of global terrorism. He asserted that the extremist ideology fueling violence in Kashmir is not isolated, drawing parallels to international terrorist attacks.

In a passionate call for action, Kotru emphasized the need for truth and accountability. "My speech comes from a place of pain, not hate, and calls for acknowledgement of the truth and courage in confronting it," he declared. He urged the global community, particularly the United States, to take a firm stance against state-sponsored terrorism, specifically naming Pakistan.

"The global community, particularly the United States, [must] unite against this evil, hold Pakistan accountable, and ensure a future free from terrorism and hatred," Kotru implored.

Their diverse perspectives further illuminated the complex geopolitical landscape and the urgent need for international attention to the issue.

The Congressional Briefing also featured insights from other prominent speakers, including:

• Dr. Michael Rubin of the American Enterprise Institute

• Clifford Smith from the North American Values Institute

• Sushant Sareen of the Observer Research Foundation

• Krystle Kaul – National Security Expert of Kashmiri Heritage & Former Congressional Candidate

• Jesse Singh – Chairman, Sikhs of America

• Representatives from HAF, HinduACTion, and COHNA

KOA’s leadership in organizing this briefing and the powerful address by its President, Uphaar Kotru, underscore the organization’s vital role in raising awareness and advocating for justice for the Kashmiri Hindu community. The event served as a critical platform to engage policymakers and the international community on the pressing issue of state-sponsored terrorism and the ongoing threats faced by religious minorities.

Attendees were encouraged to contact their Members of Congress to urge their active participation in addressing religious persecution and supporting bipartisan efforts against state-sponsored terrorism. The briefing served as a powerful reminder of the need for continued vigilance and concerted action to ensure human rights and security for all.