Srinagar: Kashmiris across the Line of Control and globally will observe Right to Self-Determination Day on Sunday, reaffirming their commitment to the pursuit of freedom through a plebiscite endorsed by the United Nations.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the observance dates back to January 5, 1949, when the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution supporting the Kashmiris’ right to determine their future through a UN-sponsored plebiscite. The day will feature rallies, seminars, and conferences worldwide, aimed at reminding the UN of its duty to implement resolutions to resolve the Kashmir dispute and alleviate the conditions faced by Kashmiris.

This year, the observance occurs as Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir remains under a security lockdown, overseen by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, appointed by the BJP. Advocate Abdul Rashid Minhas, a spokesman for the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), has called on the international community and the United Nations to honor the promised plebiscite in Jammu and Kashmir, allowing the Kashmiri people to exercise their right to self-determination.

The APHC statement highlighted concerns over ongoing state actions and violations of international laws since August 5, 2019. The situation has led to the arrest of thousands of Kashmiris, including prominent leaders, and has resulted in widespread shortages affecting business, economy, water, electricity, and healthcare. The APHC has described these actions as severe and organized aggression by the Indian government.

The APHC is urging the international community to intervene and stop the actions against the Kashmiri people, while urging New Delhi to resolve the Kashmir dispute by granting the right to self-determination to the Kashmiri people.