Ain o Salish Kendra co-founder Khurshid Irfan Ahmed dies

Khurshid Irfan Ahmed, a co-founder of the prominent human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), has died, the organization announced Sunday.

ASK expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Ahmed, describing her as a visionary founding member and a longtime colleague who devoted her life to promoting justice, human dignity, and the rights of marginalized people. The organization stated that her death marks a significant loss.

Since ASK's inception, Khurshid Irfan Ahmed was instrumental in strengthening its foundational principles, fostering institutional development, and expanding its human rights initiatives. Notably, she spearheaded the establishment of ASK's Child Rights Unit, which has since played a vital role in protecting children's rights, supporting abuse survivors, and advocating for child-friendly legislation.

Her work extended to promoting the rights and welfare of disadvantaged, working, and vulnerable children over many years. ASK also highlighted her recognition of the importance of psychosocial rehabilitation alongside legal aid in human rights advocacy, leading to the development of programs offering such support.

ASK extended its condolences to Ahmed's family, colleagues, and well-wishers, praying for the eternal peace of the deceased.