Pindi marks Kashmir Solidarity Day

JKSM chairman hails Pakistan for supporting oppressed people of IIOJK

RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD:

Kashmir Solidarity Day was observed with rallies, protests, and events across Rawalpindi to condemn Indian actions in occupied Kashmir. Political, religious, and labour organisations, along with government officials, students, and civil society members, participated in a total of 15 rallies held throughout the city.

Demonstrators chanted slogans against India, burned effigies of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and attended seminars and cultural events.

One of the most significant demonstrations took place at the Kohala Bridge, a border point between Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, where participants, including ministers from Punjab and Azad Kashmir, formed a human chain as a symbol of solidarity. The Rawalpindi Arts Council also organised an exhibition displaying photographs depicting Indian atrocities in Kashmir.

The largest event of the day was held at Government Viqarun Nisa Girls College, featuring stage performances on the Kashmiri struggle, including a musical tribute.

Jamaat-e-Islami organised a rally led by Amir Arif Shirazi and Raza Ahmed Shah, while the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) took to Murree Road with leaders Malik Khalid Nawaz Bobby, Rashid Chauhan, and Iftikhar Chaudhary at the forefront.

Speakers at various events asserted that the Kashmir independence movement was nearing success and that India would ultimately be forced to withdraw.

In Kohala, participants, including students, teachers, and government officials, formed a long human chain, chanting slogans in support of Kashmir.

Guests express appreciation for event

Jammu Kashmir Salvation Movement (JKSM) Chairman Altaf Ahamd Bhat has expressed profound gratitude to Pakistan's civil and military leadership for their unwavering support of the oppressed people of Jammu and Kashmir. Their presence in Muzaffarabad on Kashmir Solidarity Day is a strong message to the world that Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with Kashmiris in their just struggle for freedom.

During his visit to Muzaffarabad on Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, stating: "We stand shoulder to shoulder with our Kashmiri brothers in this struggle and will continue to do so until they secure their right to self-determination."

Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, while visiting Muzaffarabad, remarked: "Without any doubt, Kashmir will be free one day and part of Pakistan as per the free will and destiny of the people of Kashmir."

Bhat also extended his appreciation to all political parties, civil society organisations, and individuals who came forward in solidarity with the people of Kashmir.

Altaf Ahmed Bhat also demanded the immediate release of all Hurriyat leaders who continue to languish in Indian jails under fabricated charges. Their prolonged imprisonment is a blatant violation of human rights and a desperate attempt by India to silence the voice of Kashmiri resistance.