CDS seminar stresses July 19 accession resolution reflects Kashmiris’ aspirations
Islamabad,: The Centre for Development and Stability (CDS) held a seminar titled “The Healing Resolution: Turning the Tide from Maharaja’s Cruelty to Accession with Pakistan” at Kashmir House, Islamabad.
According to Kashmir Media Service, historians, policy experts and community representatives attended the seminar to discuss the history of Jammu and Kashmir from the 1846 Treaty of Amritsar to the events of the 1947 Partition.
Among those who spoke on the occasion included APHC-AJK leader Shameem Shawl, senior journalist Farhan Virk and CDS Director General Dr. Irfan Ashraf.
Dr. Irfan Ashraf said the seminar was aimed at understanding Kashmir’s history and the sacrifices of its people, not politics or elections. He said under Dogra rule, the people faced oppression, loss of basic rights and violence, which influenced the political leadership to adopt the Resolution of Accession to Pakistan on July 19, 1947. He described the resolution as a crucial step to secure a better future for the people of the state. He stressed that Kashmir’s history should be studied through facts and records, and urged the younger generation to understand the events that shaped the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
He also appreciated participants for attending despite pressure and threats.
Sardar Nazir of Muslim Conference (AJK) reaffirmed support for Pakistan and said the slogan “Kashmir Banega Pakistan” reflects the aspirations of the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He praised Pakistan and its armed forces for maintaining security and peace, and called for dialogue, unity and development in Azad Kashmir.
Babar Khajjak said Pakistan has always supported Kashmiris and raised their cause internationally. He urged Islamabad to recognize those standing with Pakistan and said sacrifices of Kashmiris should be remembered. He called for unity, peace and harmony, and warned that political differences should not turn into violence.
Dr. Abid Abbasi said the July 19, 1947 resolution was a historic decision by the elected leadership after the Partition Plan gave princely states the right to choose their future. He stressed the need to teach Kashmir’s history in schools and called for peace, tolerance and democratic dialogue in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Bashir Ullah said Kashmiris decided their future with Pakistan through the 1947 resolution and have continued their struggle since. He expressed concern that recent political tensions in Azad Kashmir were diverting attention from the main issue and urged focus on supporting people in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Shameem Shawl highlighted the long-standing struggle of Kashmiris and the need to keep the issue alive at national and international levels. She said the movement must remain peaceful and humanitarian, and urged the Government of Pakistan to address issues of displaced Kashmiris, including rehabilitation and representation. She also called for unity in Azad Kashmir to prevent divisions that could weaken the cause.
The seminar also recalled the signing of the Instrument of Accession on October 26, 1947, and the promises of self-determination made by Indian leaders at that time. The event included presentations, a panel discussion and a question-answer session. Media and members of the public attended.
