Kashmir Solidarity Day: A Stand for Justice and Freedom

Kashmir Solidarity Day: A Stand for Justice and Freedom


Kashmir Solidarity Day, observed every February 5, highlights the plight of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). It is a day to honor their sacrifices and support their right to self-determination. Pakistan’s observance underscores its firm stance with the oppressed people of Kashmir and calls attention to the global responsibility to resolve the dispute.


By Touqeer Abdullah


The Kashmir conflict stems from the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947. Princely states had the option to join either India or Pakistan. Kashmir, with a Muslim-majority population, was naturally aligned with Pakistan. However, its ruler, Maharaja Hari Singh, chose to accede to India under controversial circumstances on October 27, 1947. This decision led to an unresolved dispute that continues to fuel tensions. India and Pakistan have fought multiple wars over Kashmir, including in 1947-48 and 1965. Despite United Nations resolutions, India has blocked efforts to hold a plebiscite in the region. UN Security Council Resolutions 38 and 122 call for Kashmiris to decide their future. India’s refusal to comply has perpetuated the conflict and denied justice to millions.


On August 5, 2019, the Indian government unilaterally revoked Article 370 of its constitution. This article granted Jammu and Kashmir special autonomy. Along with Article 35-A, it protected the region’s residents by restricting property ownership and jobs to locals. Its abrogation stripped Kashmiris of these rights and triggered a severe crisis. The BJP government imposed a military lockdown, deployed tens of thousands of troops and cut communication links. These measures isolated the region and worsened its economic and social situation. India’s actions violated its own constitutional promises and international law, including the UN Charter.


Kashmir remains one of the most militarized regions globally. Indian forces have committed widespread human rights violations. Extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and sexual violence are rampant. The use of pellet guns has blinded and maimed thousands, including children.


Since 1989, over 96,000 Kashmiris, including women and children, have been killed. Thousands more have been detained or forcibly disappeared. The revocation of Kashmir’s special status in 2019 intensified these abuses. Reports of night raids, arbitrary detentions and curfews are common. Women are especially vulnerable, with many subjected to sexual violence by Indian forces. Young Kashmiris are frequently arrested, tortured and imprisoned without trial. These atrocities have traumatized communities and fueled resentment against Indian occupation.


Despite decades of oppression, the Kashmiri people remain steadfast. Their resilience inspires freedom-loving individuals worldwide. They continue to demand their right to self-determination as guaranteed by international law. Their struggle is not terrorism, as India claims, but a legitimate fight for justice. Kashmiris seek the implementation of UN resolutions that promise them the right to decide their future. Their courage in the face of immense suffering is a testament to their unwavering commitment to freedom.


Kashmir Solidarity Day reflects Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri cause. Pakistan has consistently raised the issue at international forums. It has exposed India’s violations of human rights and international law. Pakistan’s leadership has time to time highlighted the BJP government’s Hindutva ideology. they emphasized how this ideology marginalizes minorities, particularly Muslims, in India. Pakistan has also provided evidence of atrocities in IIOJK and called for international action. Despite diplomatic efforts, the international response remains insufficient. While some nations and organizations have expressed concern, tangible actions are lacking. Pakistan continues to amplify Kashmiri voices, urging the global community to hold India accountable.


The Kashmir conflict is not just a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. It is a matter of human rights and international justice. The international community, particularly the UN, must act to resolve the dispute. India’s narrative of labeling the freedom movement as terrorism must be challenged. The struggle of the Kashmiri people is rooted in their legal and moral right to self-determination. Global powers, human rights organizations and civil society must support Kashmiris and pressure India to end its oppressive policies. The United Nations has a duty to implement its resolutions on Kashmir. It must ensure that the Kashmiri people are allowed to exercise their right to decide their future. Silence in the face of suffering is complicity.


Kashmir Solidarity Day is more than a symbolic observance. It is a call to action. It reminds the world of the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people and the urgency of resolving their plight. The day serves as a platform to honor martyrs who have given their lives for freedom. It highlights the bond between Pakistan and the people of Kashmir, rooted in shared culture, religion and history.


Kashmir Solidarity Day also underscores the universal principles of justice, peace and human rights. These principles are essential for resolving the conflict and ensuring lasting peace in South Asia. The plight of the Kashmiri people demands immediate attention. Kashmir Solidarity Day calls on Pakistanis and the international community to stand with the oppressed. It is a day to reaffirm commitment to justice and the rule of law.


The international community must act decisively. India must be held accountable for its actions in IIOJK. The Kashmiri people’s inalienable right to self-determination must be upheld. Only through justice and freedom can peace be achieved in Jammu and Kashmir. Kashmir Solidarity Day reminds us that this vision is worth fighting for. Together, we can work toward a future where the Kashmiri people live with dignity, justice and freedom.

 

The writer is the student of International Relations at Lahore Leads University. And currently serving as interne at Kashmir Institute Of International Relations.

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