In light of recent history, August 5 has gained profound significance for Pakistanis and Kashmiris worldwide as they unite to commemorate Youm-e-Istehsal.
The day of observation is a robust response against the actions of the Hindutva-driven Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, that allegedly violated international law on this date in 2019.
High-level Involvement and Declarations
At 9:00 am, silence was observed as a mark of respect and solidarity for the martyred Kashmiris who sacrificed their lives to pursue freedom. Key political figures actively participated in the commemorations.
President Dr Arif Alvi released a message pledging Pakistan’s unyielding support for the Kashmiri people, vowing to continue advocating for their rights and acknowledging their sacrifices. He emphasized that the only route to durable peace and stability in South Asia is through the peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in line with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
Furthermore, he criticized India’s alleged illegal and unilateral actions on August 5, 2019, in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), accusing it of disempowering and disenfranchising the Kashmiri people.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed President Alvi’s sentiments, promising Pakistan’s unwavering moral, political, and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people’s struggle for freedom. He urged the global community to press India to end its supposed human rights violations and its alleged illegal occupation of IIOJK.
In preparation for Youm-e-Istehsal, Foreign Secretary Dr Asad Majeed briefed Islamabad-based diplomatic missions about the latest developments in IIOJK. His discussion emphasized the legal, security, and human rights dimensions of the situation in IIOJK.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Murtaza Javed Abbasi informed the National Assembly that Pakistan has consistently highlighted the plight of the people of IIOJK at all global forums.
As Youm-e-Istehsal approaches, China reiterated its stance on the Kashmir issue, advocating for a proper and peaceful resolution under the guidelines of the United Nations (UN) Charter, UN Security Council’s resolutions, and bilateral agreements.
