Every year on February 5, Pakistan observes Kashmir Solidarity Day, an important occasion dedicated to expressing unwavering solidarity with the people of India illegally occupied Kashmir. This public holiday serves as a heartfelt tribute to the ongoing freedom struggle and pays homage to the brave Kashmiri martyrs who valiantly sacrificed their lives for the cause.
The history of Kashmir Solidarity Day traces back to 1990 when Qazi Hussain Ahmad of Jamat-e-Islami Pakistan proposed the idea. However, it gained significant momentum in 1991 when then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif orchestrated a "Kashmir Solidarity Day Strike." Officially established in 2004 by Pakistan’s Minister for Kashmir Affairs & Northern Areas, the day has evolved into a crucial annual observance.
Against the breathtaking backdrop of Kashmir, often referred to as "heaven on earth," the region has been plagued by territorial disputes since 1947. The rest of the three wars between the two nations erupted in 1947 when India forcibly took control of Kashmir. UN intervention led to a cease-re in January 1949, establishing the Line of Control that continues to divide the region. To honor the sacrifices of Kashmiri citizens who fought for freedom, Pakistan annually commemorates Kashmir Solidarity Day.
In Pakistan, Kashmir Solidarity Day is marked by poignant expressions of support. Protests, rallies, religious ceremonies, and official events form a tapestry of remembrance and advocacy. Various groups organize processions, conferences, and seminars to raise awareness of the Kashmir conflict. The day is observed as a national holiday, with the national ag own at half-mast in solemn remembrance of the convict's victims. Official events arranged by the Pakistani government include ag-hoisting ceremonies, paying homage to Kashmiri martyrs, and expressing unwavering solidarity with the people of Kashmir. Media outlets contribute by running special coverage and programs, shedding light on the ongoing struggles faced by Kashmiris.
Political leaders deliver impassioned speeches, demanding an end to the human rights violations committed by Indian forces. This occasion serves not only as a tribute but as a reaffirmation of the indomitable spirit of the Kashmiri people. Despite India's relentless atrocities, the Kashmiris' spirit of independence and love for Pakistan remains unbroken. Kashmir a Solidarity Day is a powerful testament to the collective commitment to justice, peace, and the right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir. It stands as an occasion to honor the courage of those who sacrificed everything for the pursuit of freedom, reinforcing the unwavering support from Pakistan.
Written By: Arsalan Sunny