The South Asian Public Health Association (SAPHA) is committed to advancing the health and well-being of South Asians in the United States and the communities they are part of. As a public health organization, we recognize that global events—including the occupation of and continued structural violence in Kashmir—can have deep and lasting effects on South Asian communities here in the U.S.
We are deeply saddened by the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 innocent people. This attack triggered a cycle of military responses that heightened tensions in the region, placed countless lives at risk, and compounded trauma for affected communities. While a ceasefire agreement has been reached, underlying tensions continue to impact communities, both in Kashmir and in the South Asian diaspora in the United States. Moreover, these events are not isolated— they are part of a broader pattern of recurring violence and marginalization in the region- hence, we believe it is critical to speak out.
Violence only deepens trauma, undermines critical public health infrastructure, and pushes peace further out of reach. Critical public health challenges include an underdeveloped health infrastructure, such as a shortage of health professionals and hospitals, due to Kashmiris emigrating for their safety. This creates immense gaps in healthcare access. As public health professionals, we recognize that decades of conflict and occupation in Kashmir have lasting impacts on mental and physical health, community safety, and intergenerational wellbeing. According to a 2015 study by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), nearly 45% of the adult population in occupied Kashmir shows symptoms of significant mental distress, with 26% experiencing symptoms of PTSD and over 10% diagnosed with depression.
These health outcomes are not isolated- they reverberate through the Kashmiri diaspora in the United States. A 2020 study by Qazi et. al observed the psychological impacts of a 2019 communication blockade in Kashmir, which exacerbated depressive and anxiety symptoms within the Kashmiri diaspora population surveyed. More research is needed to understand the health implications, specifically for Kashmiris who have been displaced or forced to migrate by the instability. We recognize that the health of South Asian communities in the U.S. cannot be separated from the geopolitical forces that shape their experiences, identities, and sense of safety.
Our solidarity lies with the civilians and diaspora communities whose lives and health are continually shaped by conflict. SAPHA calls for a just and peaceful resolution, one that centers Kashmiri voices, their right to self-determination, and upholds rights to health, justice, and dignity.
To learn more about advocacy for Kashmir, visit https://kashmirawareness.org/.
