ISLAMABAD: Pakistan observed the sixth anniversary of Youm-e-Istehsal on August 5. Civil and military leaders strongly condemned India’s continued efforts to change the demographic makeup of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Islamabad warned that New Delhi’s actions violate international law. Officials said the attempt to alter the Muslim-majority identity of the region threatens regional peace and stability.
India revoked Kashmir’s Special Status on August 5, 2019
Six years ago, India revoked Article 370 and stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomous status. It split the region into two union territories. Pakistan and many international observers condemned the move, calling it illegal and oppressive.
Since then, Pakistan has observed Youm-e-Istehsal every year. The day protests India’s occupation and its demographic changes in IIOJK.
PM Shehbaz Reaffirms Support for Kashmir Cause
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the Kashmir dispute remains central to Pakistan’s foreign policy. In a statement, he urged the UN and global powers to act against India’s “draconian laws” and illegal measures.
“We strongly condemn India’s unilateral actions since August 5, 2019,” he said. “These actions aim to change the region’s political and demographic landscape.”
He accused India of investing in brutality instead of diplomacy. He said India continues to violate international laws and UN Security Council resolutions.
The prime minister condemned the ongoing detention of Kashmiri leaders, including Shabbir Ahmed Shah, Yasin Malik, and Masarrat Alam Bhatt. “India will not succeed in silencing the Kashmiri voice,” he said.
“This is a day to salute the courage and resilience of the Kashmiri people,” he added. “India’s occupation relies on state terrorism, but it will not last. Kashmiris have shown unmatched bravery.”
President Zardari Calls for UN-Backed Solution
President Asif Ali Zardari also issued a message. He called for a political solution based on UN resolutions and the will of the Kashmiri people.
He highlighted Indian efforts to change the region’s identity through:
- Electoral gerrymandering
- Issuing domiciles to non-Kashmiris
- Adding outsiders to voter rolls
- Enacting new land ownership laws
“India wants to erase Kashmiri identity and rights,” the president said. “But Kashmiris continue to resist these illegal actions.”
