US Congressional panel to discuss Kashmir situation tomorrow.

ISLAMABAD -- A United States Congressional hearing on South Asia with focus on occupied Kashmir will be held tomorrow (Tuesday) in Washington.

In a statement, Congressman Brad Sherman said the hearing will review humanitarian situation in Kashmir where normal life has been crippled with arrest of many political activists and communication black-out. He said supplies of essential items including food and medicine have also been interrupted.

'The hearing will focus on the Kashmir Valley, where many political activists have been arrested and daily life, the internet, and telephone communications have been interrupted,' Congressman Brad Sherman, chairman of the Asia Subcommittee, said in a statement.

'The hearing will also review the humanitarian situation in Kashmir and whether Kashmiris have adequate supplies of food, medicine, and other essentials.'

US State Department Assistant Secretary Alice Wells, who oversees all policy towards South Asia, will testify at the hearing, as will Scott Busby, who oversees human rights efforts in South Asia.

'In August, I had an opportunity to meet with Americans from Kashmir Valley in the San Fernando Valley, along with my colleague Congressman Andre Carson (D-IN). We heard stories of difficulties encountered by my constituents and others, and the fears they have for their loved ones. Since then I have had several additional meetings with Kashmiri Americans. I look forward to learning more about human rights in Kashmir,' said...