As February 5th dawns, it ushers in a solemn pledge of solidarity with the resilient people of Kashmir, whose courage in the face of relentless oppression continues to inspire the world. Since 1948, and more brutally since 1990, Kashmiris have endured unimaginable suffering at the hands of Indian authorities. Yet, their unwavering spirit and determination stand as a testament to their will to resist tyranny and injustice.
February 5th, observed as Kashmir Solidarity Day, transcends being just a date—it symbolizes unity with the Kashmiri cause. On this day, Pakistanis reaffirm their commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Kashmir in their struggle for justice, dignity, and freedom.
Across Pakistan, voices unite to remind the international community that the fight for Kashmir is not just about territory but a fight for fundamental human rights and dignity. February 5th serves as a powerful reminder that the Kashmiri people’s struggle is not forgotten and their resilience will not go unsupported.
Indian forces entered Kashmir in 1947, unleashing a systematic campaign of oppression against its people. Since then, the region has endured unimaginable atrocities. These actions starkly violate international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions meant to protect civilians in conflict zones. Despite decades of brutal repression, the indomitable spirit of the Kashmiri people remains unbroken. Their resilience in the face of such tyranny is a powerful testament to their courage and determination to resist the fascism of the Indian government.
On this solemn occasion of Kashmir Solidarity Day, Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with the oppressed people of Kashmir. We renew our pledge to amplify their voices, demand justice for the innocent, and remind the world of their enduring struggle for dignity, freedom, and self-determination.
From the very beginning, Pakistan has been a steadfast advocate for the Kashmiri people, raising its voice against their oppression on every international platform. Whether through engagement with global media, active participation in forums like the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), or persistent efforts at the United Nations, Pakistan has consistently worked to highlight the suffering and injustice faced by the people of Kashmir—especially after India’s revocation of Article 370 in August 2019.
Kashmir Solidarity Day amplifies this commitment, as both the government and the people of Pakistan come together to draw international attention to the plight of Kashmiris. Through rallies, media campaigns, and diplomatic efforts, Pakistan ensures that the world is reminded of this unresolved dispute. The day’s activities often succeed in capturing the focus of international media, human rights organizations, and the United Nations, reinforcing the urgency of addressing the longstanding oppression and seeking justice for the people of Kashmir.
Despite UN resolutions and reports by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in 2018 and 2019, which detailed grave allegations of human rights abuses in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, India continues its relentless oppression, targeting innocent civilians. Regrettably, no concrete or decisive action has been taken against India to halt these violations. However, Pakistan remains unwavering in its support for the Kashmiri people, persistently raising their plight on every global stage.
Kashmir Solidarity Day serves as a powerful platform to amplify the voices of the oppressed. Across Pakistan, the day is marked with heartfelt efforts to spotlight the Kashmir cause. Streets and public spaces are adorned with banners, while schools and universities hold dedicated events, including debates, anthem competitions, and seminars. Official holidays are observed at educational institutions, and private and government organizations contribute through special programs and symbolic gestures of solidarity.
The government of Pakistan and its military further emphasize the day through official tweets, anthem launches, and live-streamed discussions on the Kashmir dispute. Television programs, national and local seminars, and emotionally charged public rallies reflect Pakistanis’ deep-rooted emotional connection to the cause. These collective efforts ensure that the Kashmiri people’s struggle remains in focus at the international level, reminding the world of its responsibility to address the ongoing injustice.
Kashmir Solidarity Day has grown beyond Pakistan and Kashmir, with individuals and organizations across the world now recognizing this day as a symbol of unity against the injustice faced by the Kashmiri people. It serves as a beacon of hope, ensuring that their decades-long struggle for freedom does not fade into obscurity.
This day is not merely a gesture of goodwill—it is a solemn pledge. A pledge to ensure that the voices of innocent Kashmiris are never silenced, and their call for justice resonates globally. Pakistan takes the lead in this initiative, renewing its unwavering commitment to stand with the children, women, and men of Kashmir from the very beginning of their struggle until the day they achieve freedom.
India may attempt to suppress Kashmir’s cries for freedom through relentless oppression, but the resilience of the Kashmiri people, combined with Pakistan’s steadfast support, amplifies their voice across the world. Every year, as the world observes Kashmir Solidarity Day, a clear message is sent: no amount of cruelty can erase the legitimate call for justice, dignity, and self-determination.
Pakistan stands firm, shoulder to shoulder with the people of Kashmir, ensuring that the international community hears their cries for freedom. Together, this collective voice continues to challenge oppression and uphold the fight for justice that Kashmir so rightfully deserves.
The author is a Student of International Relations at International Islamic University Islamabad and currently working as an Intern at Kashmir Institute of International Relations
