Lawmakers unite for Kashmir cause

The Sindh Assembly on Tuesday unanimously passed a resolution to express solidarity with the people of Illegally Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and condemn Indian atrocities on the occasion of Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir or the Kashmir Exploitation Day. The resolution, tabled by Provincial Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, was supported by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and all parties present in the House.

Addressing the Assembly, CM Murad reiterated Pakistan's longstanding stance that Kashmir is the country's lifeline, terming India's move to strip the region of its special status as a blatant violation of international laws. He said the Modi government had betrayed both its citizens and the Kashmiri people, adding that Pakistan would continue to raise its voice against this illegal occupation at every level.

Murad ecalled the contributions of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, President Asif Ali Zardari, and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in championing the Kashmir cause internationally. He also revealed that India had attempted to attack Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in May, but Pakistan's armed forces and the nation responded decisively, downing enemy aircraft and destroying airfields, forcing India to seek US intervention for a ceasefire. The CM also condemned Israeli atrocities in Gaza and urged the international community to take immediate action.

Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said that despite political differences, the PPP, MQM, and PTI stood united for the cause of Kashmir. He noted that on August 5, 2019, India violated UN resolutions by revoking Kashmir's special status, and that the Indian forces had for decades subjected innocent Kashmiris to brutal repression, with thousands laying down their lives for freedom. Opposition Leader Ali Khurshidi said the day must be observed to expose India's real face to the world. PPP's Jamil Soomro demanded the restoration of Kashmir's pre-August 5 status and the right to self-determination. MQM's Fauzia Hameed expressed confidence that the day was not far when Kashmiris would achieve their rights.