Ottawa: The High Commission for Pakistan in Ottawa, along with the Consulates General in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, observed Youm-e-Istehsal to mark the seventh anniversary of India’s revocation of Articles 370 and 35-A of its Constitution. These actions, taken on 5 August 2019, altered the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir. The event was held to express Pakistan’s solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

According to Press Information Department, the event featured special messages from Pakistan’s President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister. A documentary was screened to highlight the humanitarian and human rights situation in IIOJK. Additionally, a photographic exhibition showcased the impact of the conflict on the Kashmiri people. The ceremony was attended by the Pakistani and Kashmiri diaspora, academics, community representatives, and friends of Kashmir.

Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner Muhammad Saleem remarked that seven years after India’s actions, promises of peace, stability, and development remain unfulfilled. He pointed out ongoing concerns about restrictions on fundamental freedoms, prolonged detentions, demographic changes, and reports of human rights violations in IIOJK. The High Commissioner underscored that Jammu and Kashmir is an internationally recognized unresolved dispute, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution in line with United Nations Security Council Resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.