Islamabad: The National Assembly’s Special Committee on Kashmir, led by Chairman Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon, convened on August 19, 2024, at the Parliament House to deliberate on the ongoing situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The committee underscored the urgency of addressing what it described as the “unfinished agenda of partition” and pledged to continue highlighting the plight of Kashmiris under Indian administration.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, Chairman Noon emphasized the importance of international advocacy in exposing the alleged human rights violations in the region, particularly after India’s revocation of Articles 370 and 35-A. He criticized India’s stance on Kashmir, accusing it of suppressing the self-determination rights of Kashmiris, contrary to international norms. Noon also remarked on the substantial military presence in the region, which he claimed was used to oppress the local population.

The committee unanimously resolved to escalate their efforts in bringing global attention to the issue, planning to engage actively at both regional and international forums. The meeting also included discussions on the perceived ineffectiveness of local government elections in the region, which the committee members labeled as a facade.

In attendance were prominent members of the National Assembly, representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs, the Ministry of Defence, and other officials, who collectively reiterated their commitment to advocate for Kashmir’s independence, fulfilling what they consider a vision of Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam.

The committee also announced plans to visit border areas in Azad Kashmir, including Chakothi, to assess the situation firsthand and further the cause of Kashmiri self-determination.