Hyderabad, Jan 28: : Speaking at the 14th All India Conference of the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) in Hyderabad, a strong and uncompromising voice from Jammu and Kashmir articulated the collective resolve of Kashmiri women, asserting dignity, justice and equality as non-negotiable political rights.

Addressing delegates from across the country, the Adv Laila Khalid said Kashmiri women reject sympathy that comes without accountability and development narratives that exclude democracy. “Women’s emancipation cannot be separated from people’s rights, peace with justice and the dismantling of all forms of patriarchal and authoritarian power,” the address underlined.
The speech highlighted that women in Jammu and Kashmir continue to live at the intersection of political uncertainty, social control and systemic injustice, yet remain at the forefront of resistance, resilience and community leadership. It stressed that true empowerment cannot be reduced to welfare measures alone but must be rooted in democratic participation, equality before law and freedom from fear.
Describing the intervention as more than a formal address, the Laila said it was a declaration of presence, agency and collective determination. The participation of Kashmiri women at the national conference was projected as a reaffirmation that their voices cannot be marginalised or silenced.
The address concluded with a message of solidarity, asserting that the struggle of Kashmiri women is inseparable from the broader fight for justice, peace and democratic rights. “Solidarity with the women of Kashmir. The resistance continues,” the speaker said, drawing strong support from delegates at the conference.