Islamabad, The 76th Founding Day of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) was observed today, marked by solemn events and a reaffirmed commitment to keep the momentum of struggle alive until the liberation of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and its subsequent accession to Pakistan.
According to a news release by Kashmir Media Service, Muzaffarabad initiated the commemoration with dedicated prayers for the liberation of those in IIOJK. A significant gathering took place at Parade Ground where notable figures, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq, AJK President Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, and several ministers such as Latif Akbar, Khawaja Farooq, APHC-AJK chapter General Secretary Shaikh Abdul Mateen, Zahid Ashraf, and Mushtaqul Islam, attended and witnessed the hoisting of the national flag.
Further accentuating the significance of the day, prayers were extended for the unity and flourishing of Pakistan, as well as the prompt liberation of IIOJK. The national anthems of both Pakistan and Azad Kashmir resonated during the event, exemplifying shared sentiments and aspirations.
To amplify the day’s importance, all three radio stations in Azad Jammu and Kashmir have curated special programming, shedding light on the historic relevance of the Founding Day.
Speakers at various events throughout the day extended their congratulations to both the government and the citizens of AJK on the 76th Foundation Day of the Azad Government of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It was highlighted that the foundation of AJK was laid 76 years prior, as a testament to the Kashmiri people’s unwavering determination for freedom.
In the wake of recent actions by the Modi-led BJP regime, including changes in the demographic of IIOJK and the issuance of domiciles to non-resident members, which were considered as contraventions of international law and UN resolutions, speakers emphasized that these actions cannot suppress the Kashmiris’ resolve for freedom. They further opined that lasting peace in the region can only be attained through the resolution of the Kashmir conflict in alignment with United Nations mandates and the collective will of the people.
Jammu and Kashmir Mass Movement Chairperson, Farida Bahenji, voiced her sentiments from Srinagar, extending her felicitations to the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir on this monumental day. She juxtaposed the celebrations in Azad Kashmir with the prevailing conditions in occupied Kashmir, which remains under Indian dominion.