Shillong, Nov 14: The International Indigenous Peoples Movement for Self-Determination and Liberation (IPMSDL) strongly condemned the attack on social activist, Agnes Kharshiing, and her associate, Amita Sangma in East Jaiñtia Hills on November 8.

“The murderous assault on Kharshiing and her friend adds to the alarming spike of attacks on activists especially women human rights defenders around the world, including illegal arrests, vilification, harassments, and killings of women indigenous leaders and environment defenders,” a statement said.

The IPMSDL also recalled recent cases of attacks include National Union of People’s Lawyer (NUPL) member, Attorney Kathy Panguban from the Philippines who was charged with ‘kidnapping’ by the police after providing legal assistance and protection to a witness to the ‘Sagay massacre’ that killed nine farmers and a minor.

Human rights lawyer, Sugha Bhardja, who have work on the protection of indigenous Adivasi peoples against extrajudicial executions, was denied bail and forced to remain in police custody after being charged with ‘terrorism’ following the crackdown in several parts of India.

“The climate of violence directed towards women human rights defenders, indigenous leaders and environment activists among others, further deteriorates the democratic space for critical voices and safeguards for the protection of people, lands, and rights. The IPMSDL emphasizes the immediate call to guarantee justice and protection to women human rights defenders by the responsible state agencies and national human rights institutions to stand for the elimination of all forms of threats to their safety. We also demand the dismissal of all false charges that impede and endanger their work as rights defenders,” the statement said

Amid grave challenges, the IPMSDL salutes the bravery of those who stand in the face of fascist states and repressive forces, of everyday threats and intimidations, even giant corporations victimizing small communities, to uphold the marginalized and oppressed people’s welfare.

“We call on the international community, and all indigenous organizations and human rights advocates to join and echo the call to stop all forms of attacks and targeting of women human rights defenders in all countries,” the statement said.