ISLAMABAD – August 5, 2025:
As Kashmiris across the globe marked Youm-i-Istehsal — a grim reminder of India’s unilateral revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status — Pakistan’s National Assembly passed a unanimous resolution on Monday, reiterating its full political, diplomatic, and moral support for the Kashmiri people’s struggle for self-determination.
The resolution, presented by Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan, and SAFRON, Engineer Amir Muqam, condemned India’s move to revoke Articles 370 and 35A of its constitution six years ago, stripping the region of its autonomy. Muqam cited decades of systematic oppression, including thousands of extrajudicial killings and large-scale demolitions carried out in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
“This day serves as a stark reminder of the betrayal of promises made to the Kashmiri people,” Muqam said during the session, calling on the international community to play its role in ending the continued human rights abuses in the region.
Across Pakistan, solemn rallies and public events were held to observe the day and express solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The main event in Islamabad began at the Foreign Office and concluded at D-Chowk, drawing participation from federal ministers, diplomats, civil society activists, and the general public. A nationwide minute of silence was observed at 10:00 AM to honour the sacrifices and unyielding spirit of the Kashmiri people.
In Quetta, a significant rally led by Deputy Commissioner Mehar Ullah Badini saw demonstrators march through key city roads, while banners, posters, and digital screens across Pakistan’s urban centres called attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Kashmir.
Meanwhile, in Srinagar, supporters of India’s Congress party staged a demonstration demanding the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. Their protest coincides with an upcoming Supreme Court hearing on the matter in New Delhi.
The prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, along with the chief ministers of all four provinces, federal ministers, and political figures from major parties — including Maulana Fazlur Rehman and PPP’s Senator Sherry Rehman — also issued strong statements denouncing India’s actions and vowing continued support for Kashmir.
From Beijing to Brussels, Pakistani embassies held commemorative ceremonies and briefings to spotlight the situation in IIOJK on international platforms. Officials described these global events as part of Pakistan’s ongoing effort to keep the Kashmir cause alive on the diplomatic front.
As the sun set on Youm-i-Istehsal, one message remained crystal clear from all corners of Pakistan: the country stands resolutely with the people of Kashmir in their pursuit of freedom and justice.
