ISLAMABAD: National Assembly passed a resolution with complete consensus, reaffirming that the nation will steadfastly uphold the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination as enshrined in international law and UN resolutions.
The resolution was introduced by Engineer Amir Muqam, Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, in Urdu, and by Shazia Marri in English. It strongly condemned India’s illegal and unilateral actions taken on August 5, 2019, which aimed to alter the status of Jammu and Kashmir—actions deemed morally unjustifiable and in violation of international law and UN Security Council resolutions.
The Assembly maintained that no Indian unilateral measures can redefine the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir, which remains on the international agenda. It emphasized that the Kashmir issue is a global concern, not an internal Indian matter, and must be resolved fairly and peacefully in line with UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
The resolution called on the international community to stand for justice and oppose silence in the face of Indian human rights violations and oppression in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). It reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering diplomatic, moral, and political support for Kashmiris and pledged to persist in raising the Kashmir dispute at regional and global platforms.
Condemning all forms of Indian state violence, the House criticized efforts aimed at erasing Kashmiri culture and political aims, asserting these tactics are destined to fail. It designated August 5 as a ‘black day’ to commemorate the beginning of India’s illegal siege and gross human rights abuses in IIOJK, including restrictions on freedoms and violations of international conventions like the Geneva Conventions.
The Assembly rejected India’s demographic engineering and political persecutions, demanding accountability for systemic human rights violations such as arbitrary arrests, torture, media blackouts, and collective punishments. It emphasized that peace in South Asia is impossible without a just resolution of the Kashmir conflict.
The resolution urged the United Nations and the international community to break their silence and implement existing resolutions calling for a free, fair, and impartial plebiscite in Kashmir, allowing Kashmiris to determine their future freely under UN supervision. It highlighted that the will of the Kashmiri people cannot be overridden by force or law.
From Srinagar to Islamabad, Kashmiris and Pakistanis alike share a common heartbeat for freedom and dignity. The Assembly recognized August 5 as an ongoing reminder of the moral responsibility to stand for justice and human rights in Kashmir.Pakistan reaffirmed its principled support for the Kashmiri cause, urging the international community to pressure India into repealing oppressive laws and honoring UN resolutions.
Youm-e-Istehsal was observed nationwide and in Kashmir with various events to express solidarity with the Kashmiris and protest India’s illegal actions of 2019. Across the country, rallies, including one from Pakistan’s Foreign Office to D-Chowk in Islamabad, featured dignitaries and citizens alike. A minute of silence was observed at 10:00 am.
Special walks, programs, and broadcasts highlighted the sacrifices of Kashmiri heroes, the ongoing struggle for freedom, and the harsh realities faced under Indian occupation. Pakistani missions abroad also organized commemorative activities, amplifying the message of support for Kashmir’s right to self-determination.
