KASHMIR Solidarity Day was observed on Monday. Various events were organized across Pakistan, demonstrating the deep and enduring ties that exist between the people of Pakistan and their Kashmiri brothers and sisters. The day served as a platform to reiterate commitments by both civilian and military leadership to stand firmly by the Kashmiri people in their just struggle for the right to self-determination.
Surprisingly, as electioneering is in full swing in the country, it is disheartening that no major political leader made even a passing reference to the plight of the Kashmiri people or the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. This oversight is glaring, considering the profound historical, cultural and emotional connections shared between Pakistan and Kashmir. On the contrary, Indian political campaigns consistently resort to Pakistan bashing. It is unfortunate that, amid the political noise, the oppression faced by the Kashmiri people at the hands of Indian occupying forces received minimal attention. Political parties should have taken a principled stance and spoken out against the human rights abuses in IIOJK. Undoubtedly, the situation in the occupied valley is very dire where Indian occupying forces continue to perpetrate atrocities, including extrajudicial killings, fake encounters, and the abduction of youth and political leaders to suppress the freedom struggle. Especially ever since the illegal steps of 5th August 2019, restrictions of all sorts have been tightened in the occupied valley and this is why it is being dubbed as the largest prison in the world. Despite these harsh measures, the resolve of the Kashmiri people for their right to self-determination remains unshakeable. We have no doubt in saying that the day is not far when the Kashmiri people will also see the dawn of independence. The resolution of Kashmir dispute lies only in negotiations, demonstrating seriousness, and adhering to the UN mandate. Whilst Pakistan has always shown the seriousness towards that end, New Delhi should also shun intransigence and sit with Pakistan for the resolution of this lingering dispute which is a must for regional peace and stability. The international community and the UN Security Council also need to fulfil their obligations and ensure that the promises made to the Kashmiri people are honoured without any further delay.
