By: Kokab Rathore
On every 5 February 2026, Pakistan commemorates Kashmir Solidarity Day, reaffirming its enduring commitment to the people of Kashmir and their legitimate struggle. Observed nationwide, the day brings together citizens from all segments of society through rallies, seminars, and symbolic human chains that reflect a shared sense of grief, resilience, and hope. More than a ceremonial observance, Kashmir Solidarity Day represents Pakistan’s principled pledge rooted in justice, solidarity, and fraternity to stand with the Kashmiri people. Instituted in 1990 in response to intensified Indian military crackdowns in Kashmir, the day continues to serve as a platform for amplifying Kashmiri voices at the international level.
While Pakistan reiterates national unity and support, the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) continue to endure harsh and oppressive conditions. Since 5 August 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in New Delhi has imposed an unprecedented security and administrative clampdown. The unilateral revocation of Article 370 abruptly ended Kashmir’s limited autonomy, followed by prolonged curfews, mass arrests of political leaders and civil society members, and sweeping restrictions on communication. Telecommunication services, internet access, and independent media were severely curtailed, effectively isolating the region from the outside world. The deployment of additional troops, barricading of streets, and stringent surveillance transformed daily life into an ordeal, with even medical care and funeral rites subject to military approval. International observers have repeatedly noted the systematic suppression of journalists, widespread detention without trial, and the stifling of free expression.
India’s actions have also struck at the core of Kashmir’s social and political identity. The abrogation of Article 35A, alongside the revocation of special status, opened the region to external settlement and property ownership. Critics have widely interpreted this move as a deliberate attempt at demographic reengineering aimed at undermining the Muslim-majority character of the Valley. These measures align with the long-standing ideological objectives of Hindu nationalist forces seeking to fully assimilate Kashmir into a broader vision of a “Hindu Rashtra.” The reorganisation of the region into two centrally governed Union Territories, imposed without local consent, further weakened indigenous political representation and eroded Kashmir’s historical and cultural distinctiveness.
The humanitarian toll has been severe. International human rights organisations have documented persistent violations, including arbitrary detentions, custodial torture, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances. Amnesty International has reported a sharp escalation in repression since 2019, marked by sweeping restrictions on movement, expression, and assembly exercised with near-total impunity. Human Rights Watch similarly notes that years after the constitutional changes, fundamental freedoms remain un-restored, while security forces continue to employ coercive and punitive measures. Students, activists, lawyers, and journalists have been detained under preventive laws, and the local media operates under intense pressure and censorship. Under constant surveillance and recurring curfews, ordinary Kashmiris live in an atmosphere of fear where even digital communication can invite punitive action.
Despite repeated appeals for restoration of civil liberties and normalcy, the situation remains unchanged. Major global powers, constrained by geopolitical considerations, have largely refrained from meaningful intervention. India continues to portray Kashmir as an internal matter, yet in reality maintains the region under an indefinite state of militarisation. Although the United Nations has expressed concern, no concrete action has followed to curb the ongoing human rights violations.
Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir has remained consistent and unequivocal. It maintains that the Kashmiri struggle is both morally just and firmly anchored in international law. The aspirations of the Kashmiri people for dignity, self-governance, and the right to determine their future—are fully aligned with United Nations Security Council resolutions. Pakistan continues to advocate for a UN-mandated plebiscite as a peaceful and democratic means for resolving the dispute. This position has found support in international forums, including the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, both of which have repeatedly reaffirmed the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
Through sustained diplomatic, legal, and multilateral engagement, Pakistan continues to highlight the plight of Kashmir at global platforms. However, lasting accountability cannot be achieved without a broader international commitment. Persistent indifference enables the continuation of rights violations and undermines prospects for peace. A just and durable resolution requires a principled and collective response from the international community.
On this Kashmir Solidarity Day, Pakistan once again stands resolutely with the people of IIOJK. The observance is not merely symbolic; it is a call for justice. Pakistan’s support extends beyond rhetoric and ceremonies and encompasses moral, diplomatic, and humanitarian efforts. It will continue until the Kashmiri people are able to exercise their inalienable rights and live in freedom. Peace in South Asia remains inseparable from justice in Kashmir, and while the struggle for justice may be arduous, it remains both necessary and right.
The writer is a Researcher, and working as an Anchor Person in State Media of Pakistan. He is a Lecturer, Vlogger and Freelancing Journalist. He can be reached at kokab.raathore@gmail.com
Disclaimer: “The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of any organization”.
