A special court in India’s capital Delhi has sentenced senior Kashmiri Hurriyat leader Aasiya Andrabi to life imprisonment in a case described by critics as politically motivated. Two of her associates Fehmeeda Sofi and Naheeda Nasreen were each handed 30 year prison terms.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the trio was convicted under multiple sections of India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) along with provisions of the Indian Penal Code. The case was filed by India’s investigation agency which accused Aasiya Andrabi of delivering speeches allegedly inciting violence against the state.

The court, after hearing arguments, delivered its verdict through Additional Sessions Judge Chandrjeet Singh. Aasiya Andrabi has been in custody since 2017 and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in Delhi.

Human rights organizations have strongly criticized the verdict calling it a politically driven decision and part of broader actions against pro independence voices in Jammu and Kashmir. They argue that the case reflects ongoing concerns about civil liberties and legal processes in the region.

Separately reports note that Andrabi’s husband has also been imprisoned for decades in a separate case.