Kashmiri Activist Yana Mir's Bold Speech in UK Parliament Sparks Controversy and Support.
Yana Mir, a Kashmiri activist and journalist, has recently gained widespread attention due to her powerful speech in the UK Parliament. During this address, she boldly asserted that she is not a “Malala Yusufzai” and emphasized her freedom and safety in Kashmir, India. Let’s delve into who Yana Mir is and why she’s making headlines:
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Background and Identity:
- Yana Mir hails from Srinagar, Kashmir, and wears multiple hats as a journalist, social activist, and Kashmir’s first female YouTube vlogger.
- She is associated with the Jammu and Kashmir Youth Society, dedicated to empowering youth and women in the valley.
- Yana orchestrated Kashmir’s inaugural internationally acclaimed fashion show and has shared her insights as a speaker on the TEDx stage.
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The Viral Speech:
- Speaking at the Sankalp Divas event in the UK Parliament, Yana passionately addressed concerns related to the portrayal of Kashmir.
- She vehemently declared, “I am not a Malala Yusufzai because I am free and I am safe in my country, in my homeland Kashmir, which is part of India.”
- Yana criticized those spreading false narratives of “oppression” in Kashmir without firsthand experience and urged an end to divisive tactics on social media.
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Controversy and Threats:
- Some social media users questioned Yana Mir’s identity, suggesting that she is not a Kashmiri Muslim and pointing out her purported actual name as Yana Mirchandani (though these claims are unverified).
- Her impactful speech garnered significant attention but also brought unwarranted threats.
- Sajid Yousuf Shah, the BJP media in-charge for Kashmir, condemned the threats and attributed them to the influence of the “Toolkit gang.”
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A Call for Peace and Truth:
- Yana urged individuals residing in the UK and Pakistan to cease maligning India on international platforms.
- She emphasized the need to stop selective outrage and polarisation, advocating for peace in her Kashmiri community.
In summary, Yana Mir’s fiery speech resonated with many, highlighting the complexities of Kashmir’s political landscape and challenging prevailing narratives. Her courage and commitment to truth have earned her nationwide acclaim and support 🌟🇮🇳