ISLAMABAD: Pakistani nation is set to observe Kashmir Solidarity Day on Thursday with countrywide rallies, seminars and human chains to express support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and to highlight Kashmiris’ right to self-determination under United Nations resolutions.
February 5 has been declared a public holiday across the country. Special prayers, solidarity walks and public gatherings are planned in major cities as well as in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
The day is marked annually to draw international attention to the Kashmir dispute and to reaffirm Pakistan’s political, moral and diplomatic support for Kashmiris.
Rallies and human chains
In Islamabad, the main solidarity walk will begin at China Chowk in the Blue Area and conclude at D-Chowk.
A one-minute silence will be observed nationwide at 10:00 am to honour those killed by Indian troops in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Human chains will be formed at key entry points linking Pakistan with Azad Jammu and Kashmir, including Mangla and Kohala bridges, where participants from both sides will join hands to symbolise unity and fraternity.
Provincial chief ministers and federal ministers are scheduled to lead solidarity marches in their respective regions, officials said.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s Mirpur district, a large rally will proceed to Mangla Bridge early Thursday morning, culminating in a public gathering addressed by political leaders from Pakistan and AJK, local authorities said.
Pakistan reiterates support
Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam said comprehensive arrangements had been finalised after consultations with federal and provincial authorities.
“Pakistan stands firmly with its Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their legitimate struggle for the right to self-determination,” Muqam told a news conference in Islamabad alongside leaders of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC).
He said the Kashmir dispute must be resolved to ensure peace and stability in South Asia and added that Pakistan would continue raising the issue at international forums.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to address the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly in Muzaffarabad on the occasion, officials said.
Several UN Security Council resolutions call for a plebiscite to determine the will of the Kashmiri people, a process blocked by India.
Pakistani officials and Kashmiri leaders say Kashmir Solidarity Day is intended to remind the international community of an unresolved humanitarian and political dispute.
“Kashmir Solidarity Day is about human rights, dignity and justice,” Muqam said. “The people of Kashmir are not alone.”
