Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir: Pakistan’s Leadership Condemns India’s Actions in Kashmir
Every August 5, Pakistan commemorates Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir (Day of Exploitation of Kashmir) to denounce India's actions in the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir. This day marks the anniversary of India's 2019 decision to abrogate Article 370, which granted Jammu and Kashmir special autonomous status. The move has been the subject of intense criticism from Pakistan and has heightened tensions between the two South Asian neighbors.
On August 5, 2019, the Indian government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unilaterally revoked Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. This legal change effectively stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomy, which had been a cornerstone of the region's special status since 1947. The revocation was accompanied by a heavy military lockdown, severe restrictions on communication, and widespread curfews, leading to significant unrest and suffering among the Kashmiri people.
Pakistan’s reaction to the abrogation was immediate and vehement. The Pakistani government, led by Prime Minister Imran Khan at the time, condemned the Indian actions as unconstitutional, illegal, and a violation of international law. Pakistan argued that the move breached United Nations Security Council resolutions, which recognize the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir and support the right of the Kashmiri people to self-determination.
On Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir, Pakistan's leadership uses the occasion to reiterate its condemnation of India's actions and to express solidarity with the Kashmiri people. High-profile statements are issued, and numerous events are organized to draw international attention to the ongoing crisis in Kashmir. This day serves as a platform for Pakistani leaders to highlight the human rights abuses and political repression faced by the Kashmiri population since the revocation of Article 370.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who succeeded Imran Khan, has continued the tradition of strong denunciation. In his statements, Sharif has reiterated Pakistan's stance on the Kashmir issue, emphasizing that the abrogation of Article 370 is a grave injustice and a direct challenge to the principles of international law. He has called on the international community to hold India accountable for what Pakistan terms as a “humanitarian crisis” in Kashmir.
Similarly, other prominent Pakistani leaders and officials use this day to reflect on the ongoing human rights violations reported in Kashmir. Reports from various human rights organizations have documented excessive use of force by Indian security forces, arbitrary arrests, and widespread restrictions on freedoms of speech and movement. Pakistan’s government points to these abuses as evidence of India's disregard for international norms and the plight of the Kashmiri people.
Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir also sees a concerted effort by Pakistan to mobilize public opinion both domestically and internationally. Rallies, seminars, and media campaigns are organized to raise awareness about the situation in Kashmir. The Pakistani government and civil society groups use these platforms to emphasize the urgent need for international intervention and dialogue to resolve the Kashmir dispute.
Additionally, this day often includes a reaffirmation of Pakistan's support for the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination. Pakistani officials and leaders reiterate their commitment to advocating for Kashmir on various international forums, including the United Nations and other global organizations. They stress that the resolution of the Kashmir issue must be based on the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and must involve direct dialogue between the parties concerned.
In summary, Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir is more than just a commemoration of a political event; it is a day of solidarity with the Kashmiri people and a call for international action. Through this observance, Pakistan’s leadership highlights its ongoing opposition to India's policies in Kashmir and seeks to galvanize global support for a just resolution to the conflict. As the situation in Kashmir continues to evolve, Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir remains a significant marker of Pakistan’s stance and its commitment to the Kashmiri cause.
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