ISLAMABAD: Pakistan reiterated its support for the people of Kashmir on the occasion of the 95th Kashmir Martyrs’ Day (Youm-e-Shuhada-e-Kashmir), with President Asif Ali Zardari paying tribute to the 22 Kashmiris killed in 1931 and renewing Islamabad’s call for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.
In a message marking the occasion, President Zardari honoured those who lost their lives during protests against the Dogra administration in 1931, describing their sacrifice as a lasting symbol of the Kashmiri struggle.
The president said Pakistan stood in solidarity with the people of Kashmir and reaffirmed the country’s support for what it described as their right to self-determination. He also expressed concern over the situation in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, alleging continued restrictions on the local population.
Referring to India’s constitutional changes of August 5, 2019, Zardari said the measures had altered the region’s status and identity. He also criticized the discontinuation of official observances related to Kashmir Martyrs’ Day, including the public holiday and the traditional Guard of Honour ceremony at the Martyrs’ Graveyard.
Calling for international engagement, the president urged India to end what Pakistan describes as human rights violations, release political prisoners, ease security restrictions, and refrain from measures that could alter the demographic composition of the region.
He also appealed to the international community to support efforts toward a peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Concluding his message, President Zardari reaffirmed that Pakistan would continue to support the people of Kashmir diplomatically and politically while praying for peace and stability in the region.
Kashmir Martyrs’ Day is observed annually in Pakistan on July 13 to commemorate the 22 Kashmiris who were killed during protests in Srinagar in 1931.