Srinagar: In the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, leaders of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) have expressed strong approval of recent comments made by Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir. These remarks have been described as a significant boost for Kashmiris opposing India’s control.

According to Kashmir Media Service, General Munir, during an address at the Overseas Pakistanis Convention in Islamabad, reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Kashmiri cause. He emphasized that no force could sever Kashmir from Pakistan, reflecting the historic viewpoint of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

APHC spokesperson Advocate Abdul Rashid Minhas, speaking from Srinagar, stated that General Munir’s comments resonate with the long-standing aspirations of Kashmiris who have faced Indian repression for decades. He highlighted that India has maintained control over the region using military force to suppress the Kashmiris’ demand for freedom.

The spokesperson noted that since 1947, nearly half a million Kashmiris have been killed, with thousands more subjected to enforced disappearances. He added that the situation has worsened under the current Indian administration, particularly following the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in 2019. He accused India of attempting to alter the region’s Muslim identity in violation of international laws.

The APHC reiterated Pakistan’s pivotal role in advocating for Kashmir’s right to self-determination. “Kashmiris see the Pakistan Army as their protector, and their aspiration to join Pakistan remains strong,” Minhas said.

Advocate Arshad Iqbal, representing the Democratic Freedom Party, also praised General Munir’s statement. He urged the international community to address the ongoing human rights violations in the region.

APHC-AJK leader Muhammad Sultan Butt, from Islamabad, lauded Pakistan’s military leadership for its unwavering support of Kashmir’s freedom movement. He stated that General Munir’s remarks underscore Pakistan’s commitment to the cause, offering encouragement to Kashmiris seeking self-determination.