ISLAMABAD: The federal government has announced a nationwide public holiday on the occasion of Kashmir Solidarity Day, a move that will bring routine activities across the country to a temporary halt early next year.
The formal notification has been issued by the federal government confirming that February 5, 2026, will be observed as a public holiday throughout Pakistan. The decision applies to all provinces and administrative units, signaling uniform observance at the national level.
The holiday has been declared to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day, which is commemorated annually to express support with the people of Indian-administered Kashmir. Government offices, educational institutions, and many private-sector operations are expected to remain closed on the day, in line with standard practice for national holidays.
The announcement itself follows a familiar pattern, its timing has already drawn quiet attention within administrative and civic circles. Kashmir Solidarity Day is observed with official statements, public gatherings, and special programs highlighting Pakistan’s longstanding position on the Kashmir dispute.
However, the current notification focuses strictly on the declaration of the holiday and does not outline any planned events, ceremonies, or official activities linked to the day. Past years have seen a range of activities organized by government bodies, civil society groups, and educational institutions, though the scale and format often vary.
The brief notification has left several questions unanswered. How will public services be managed on the day? Will there be centralized events or symbolic gestures at the federal level? And what role will provincial governments play in shaping the observance this time?
These details, officials suggest, will become clearer closer to the date.
