Pakistan marks Kashmir Exploitation Day

Pakistan observed Kashmir Exploitation Day on August 5, with political leaders reaffirming their support for the people

Pakistan observed Kashmir Exploitation Day on August 5, with political leaders reaffirming their support for the people of Indian-administered Kashmir and describing India’s actions of August 5, 2019, as illegal and contrary to international law and United Nations resolutions.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Pakistan remains committed to supporting the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. In his message, he stated that India’s unilateral constitutional changes made on August 5, 2019, were unlawful and pledged Pakistan’s continued moral, political and diplomatic support for Kashmiris. He also urged India to reverse all measures that altered the disputed region’s constitutional status.

The Foreign Office said Pakistan continues to observe Kashmir Exploitation Day to highlight the events of August 5, 2019. A spokesperson praised the courage, resilience and sacrifices of the people of Indian-administered Kashmir and reiterated Islamabad’s support for their cause.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz paid tribute to the families of those who lost their lives during the Kashmir conflict and urged the United Nations and international human rights organisations to take notice of alleged human rights violations in the region. She said Pakistan would never accept the constitutional changes introduced by India in 2019.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said India’s actions were against United Nations Security Council resolutions and called on the international community to play a greater role in protecting human rights in Kashmir.

Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani condemned India’s August 5 measures, saying attempts to alter the region’s demographic composition and identity were unacceptable.

In Peshawar, a solidarity rally led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi was held from the Civil Secretariat to the Governor House. Government employees and people from different walks of life participated in the event. Addressing the rally, Kundi said Pakistan would continue to stand with the people of Kashmir and support their aspirations.

Sindh Home and Law Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar said the use of force and restrictions could not weaken the determination of the Kashmiri people. Sindh Assembly Speaker Owais Qadir Shah also urged the United Nations to play a more effective role in addressing the situation.

Jamaat-e-Islami chief Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman said the struggle of the Kashmiri people would continue until the dispute is resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions. Senator Sherry Rehman praised the resilience and determination of Kashmiris, while Federal Minister Amir Muqam, speaking at a rally in Islamabad, reiterated Pakistan’s support for Kashmir and criticised India’s policies in the disputed territory.

PPP Parliamentarians Secretary General Nayyar Bukhari also condemned India’s 2019 constitutional changes, saying they had failed to suppress the Kashmiri people’s demand for self-determination and warning that such policies could undermine regional peace.