Srinagar, Kashmiris across the Line of Control and globally are set to observe January 5 as the Right to Self-Determination Day. This day reaffirms their pledge to continue the struggle for their internationally recognized right to self-determination.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the observance of this significant day has been called for by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference. Activities planned include protest demonstrations, rallies, seminars, and conferences in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, and major world capitals. These events aim to urge the United Nations to implement its resolutions on Kashmir, which have been outstanding for decades, and to draw attention to the plight of Kashmiris under Indian rule.
The significance of January 5 dates back to 1949 when the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution endorsing the Kashmiris’ right to determine their future through a UN-supervised plebiscite. This resolution forms the foundation for resolving the longstanding dispute that has escalated tensions in South Asia. Despite this, India’s refusal to cooperate has been a major obstacle in achieving this goal, with the UN yet to enforce its resolutions effectively.
The resolution of January 5, 1949, was unanimously adopted by the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP), with members including Argentina, Belgium, Colombia, Czechoslovakia, and the United States. It followed a ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India, which came into effect on January 1, 1949, based on the Commission’s resolution of August 13, 1948.
Over seven decades have passed since these resolutions, but the United Nations has not taken concrete steps to implement them. The situation in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has deteriorated, especially since August 5, 2019, when the Indian government led by Narendra Modi revoked the region’s special status. This action led to severe restrictions on the rights and freedoms of Kashmiri people, with thousands, including prominent leaders, being imprisoned in Indian jails.
The report also criticizes the Modi regime for employing various Indian agencies like RAW, IB, NIA, ED, and SIA to oppress the people of IIOJK. The contrast is drawn with the cases of East Timor and South Sudan, where plebiscites facilitated their independence, while Kashmir continues to endure what the report terms as Indian state terrorism.
The Right to Self-Determination Day serves as a reminder of the unresolved Kashmir issue and the continuous struggle of the Kashmiri people for their fundamental rights.