Islamabad (Pakistan News) Kashmiris around the world are observing Kashmir Exploitation Day today, marking seven years since India’s decision to revoke the special status of occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
The purpose of observing Kashmir Exploitation Day is to express support for the right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people and to protest against the unilateral action taken by India on August 5, 2019.
On August 5, 2019, India announced the abolition of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, a move that has continued to be rejected by Kashmiris, the people of Pakistan, and various other groups.
Special events are being organized across Pakistan to mark the occasion. A rally will be held on Constitution Avenue in Islamabad, which will be attended by federal ministers, parliamentarians, and people from different walks of life. At 9 a.m., sirens were sounded and a one-minute silence was observed.
Similarly, rallies and other events are being organized in all four provinces, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
It is worth mentioning that Kashmir Exploitation Day is observed every year on August 5 against India’s repeal of Articles 370 and 35A of its Constitution.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have also issued messages on the occasion.
The President stated that lasting and just peace in South Asia is linked to a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue. He reaffirmed solidarity with the Kashmiri people and paid tribute to their struggle for the right to self-determination.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that attempts at demographic changes in occupied Kashmir, restrictions on political leadership, curbs on civil liberties, and limitations on media freedom are matters of concern.
He added that despite all difficulties, the courage and determination of the Kashmiri people remain strong, while the Kashmir issue continues to be a major unresolved matter for peace and stability in South Asia.