Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) and across the world are observing Right to Self-Determination Day today (Monday), renewing their pledge to continue their struggle for freedom through a plebiscite.
The day marks the anniversary of January 5, 1949, when the UN Security Council passed a resolution supporting Kashmiris’ right to decide their future through a UN-sponsored plebiscite.
This year’s observance is being seen as a collective “wake-up call” for the early resolution of the decades-long Kashmir dispute.
Message of President Zardari:
“Today, Kashmiris around the world are observing the 76th anniversary of the Resolution adopted by the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP), providing that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute will be decided through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite under the UN auspices. In essence, it was a reaffirmation of the inalienable right of Kashmiris to self-determination, which is enshrined in international law and upheld by international human rights instruments.
Regrettably, India has been denying this right to the people of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) for over seven decades and subjecting them to oppression, violence, and systemic brutalities. Since 5 August 2019, it has been taking steps aimed at altering the demographic and political fabric of IIOJK, to turn Kashmiris into a disempowered community in their homeland. Despite this, the spirit of the Kashmiri people remains unbroken, and their struggle for freedom cannot be suppressed.”
Prime Minister’s Message:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “We urge the international community to urgently call upon India to halt its widespread human rights violations in IIOJK, reverse its unilateral and illegal actions of 5 August 2019, repeal the draconian laws and give the right to self-determination to the Kashmiri people, as enshrined in the United Nations Security Council resolutions.”
“Pakistan will continue to extend its unwavering moral, political, and diplomatic support to your cause, and will continue to serve as your voice at every available platform,” he said adding, “Today, as we commemorate the Right to Self-determination Day, we solemnly reaffirm our unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) in their just struggle for the right to self-determination.”
