Today, Pakistan is observing Youm-e-Istehsal to protest against the Indian government’s controversial actions of August 5, 2019, when it unilaterally and illegally abrogated Article 370 and 35-A of the Indian Constitution. This move effectively revoked the special status of Kashmir, altering the region’s legal and political landscape.
The central event of Youm-e-Istehsal will be a special walk organized from the Foreign Office to D-Chowk in Islamabad. This walk is intended to express solidarity with the people of Kashmir and highlight Pakistan’s stance on the issue. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar will lead the walk, which will commence at 8:45 AM. The event will see participation from federal ministers, lawmakers, political leaders from various parties, members of civil society, academia, students, and media personnel.
The walk will end at D-Chowk, where Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar will address the participants, reinforcing Pakistan’s support for the Kashmiri cause. At 9:00 AM, there will be a one-minute silence observed nationwide, during which all moving traffic will come to a halt. This gesture is meant to honor the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people and reflect on the gravity of their plight. Additionally, the national anthems of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir will be played to emphasize the solidarity between the two regions.
To further highlight the significance of Youm-e-Istehsal, various media organizations including Radio Pakistan and PTV are broadcasting special transmissions. These programs will focus on the leaders of Kashmir’s freedom struggle, the sacrifices made by the Kashmiri people, and the ongoing atrocities committed by Indian forces in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The special broadcasts aim to raise awareness and keep the international community informed about the situation in Kashmir.
On this significant day, Pakistan’s leadership has reaffirmed their unwavering support for the people of Kashmir:
President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized that India’s actions since August 5, 2019, have demonstrated a blatant disregard for international law, the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, and United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions concerning IIOJK. He called on the international community to pressure India to cease its human rights violations in Kashmir and to implement the relevant UNSC resolutions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to providing strong moral, political, and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people until they achieve their inalienable right to self-determination. He stressed the need for India to transition from dispute denial to dispute resolution to ensure lasting peace and security in South Asia.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar assured that Pakistan would continue to extend all possible support to the people of IIOJK for the realization of their legitimate rights. His message underscores Pakistan’s persistent stance on the Kashmir issue and its dedication to supporting the Kashmiri cause.
On the occasion of Youm-e-Istehsal, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, along with the Services Chiefs and the Pakistan Armed Forces, paid tribute to the martyrs of IIOJK. They honored the extraordinary sacrifices made by the Kashmiri people and reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to supporting them in their struggle against oppression and tyranny. The military’s involvement highlights the depth of Pakistan’s commitment to the Kashmir cause, both politically and morally.
