Marks a dark chapter in South Asian history when India sent troops to occupy Jammu and Kashmir. For decades, the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have endured brutal repression by Indian forces. Over the years, India has transformed IIOJK into one of the most militarised regions in the world. Thousands of innocent Kashmiris have been killed, while their legitimate leaders remain imprisoned, and local media is heavily censored.
The United Nations Security Council has repeatedly affirmed the right of the Kashmiri people to self-determination through a fair and impartial plebiscite. Yet, India continues to defy these resolutions and deny Kashmiris their fundamental rights. Since August 5, 2019, India has further escalated its occupation by stripping IIOJK of its special status and implementing measures to alter its demographic and political landscape. These actions are part of a broader strategy to consolidate control and suppress the Kashmiri Freedom Movement.
Despite these oppressive tactics, the resilient people of Kashmir remain steadfast in their struggle for freedom. We strongly condemn India’s ongoing atrocities and reaffirm our unwavering moral, diplomatic, and political support for the Kashmiri people's just cause.
The recent developments in the Middle East are a stark reminder that long-standing disputes should not be allowed to fester. Violating international law and pushing disputes under the rug does not guarantee lasting peace. Three generations of Kashmiris have waited for the world, especially the United Nations, to deliver them their right to self-determination. The world can no longer ignore its responsibility.
We urge the international community to pressurise India to halt its human rights abuses in IIOJK, alleviate the suffering of Kashmiris, and implement UN Security Council resolutions. Pakistan will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with its Kashmiri brothers and sisters until they achieve their inalienable right to self-determination.
EMBARGOED: NOT TO BE PUBLISHED/BROADCAST/TELECAST BEFORE 27 OCTOBER 2024
