The High Commission for Pakistan in Ottawa and the three Consulates General in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver solemnly observed the Youm-e-Istehsaal, today, marking the sixth anniversary of India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 2019, when it revoked Articles 370 and 35-A of its Constitution to strip the disputed Jammu and Kashmir region of its special status. This unilateral step was a blatant violation of the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and international law.
A dignified ceremony was held at the High Commission in Ottawa to express unwavering solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). On this occasion, Special Messages of the President, Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan were read out to the audience. A documentary illustrating the crimes committed in IIOJK was shown granting attendees a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by the Kashmiris in IIOJK. Photographic exhibition was also organized to display Indian atrocities. Moreover, one minute silence was also observed to express solidarity with people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir in their just struggle against India’s illegal occupation. The events were attended by large number of Pakistani Diaspora members and friends of the Kashmir cause.
Addressing the participants on the occasion, High Commissioner Muhammad Saleem expressed that what India trumpeted as "integration," is forced annexation attempt. On August 5, 2019, India violated its own constitutional provision as Article 370—Kashmir's fragile legal shield-was revoked. Pakistan condemned it as an illegal annexation. India called it "normalcy." After six years, India’s claim of reform has now exposed the failed narrative of integration. He called upon the UN, the international community, human rights organizations and global media to take urgent notice of the grave human rights violations in IIOJK, hold India accountable for its actions and support the Kashmiri people in their rightful quest for self-determination.
