Islamabad: In a forceful declaration of solidarity, Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan, Amir Muqam, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination during a joint news conference with leaders from the All Parties Hurriyat Conference.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Minister Muqam criticized the Indian government’s actions on August 5, 2019, that sought to change the demographic landscape of Occupied Kashmir by revoking Article 370 and 35-A. He outlined the continuous atrocities committed by India since 1947 and asserted that these actions have not quelled the Kashmiri struggle for freedom.

The Minister announced that Youm-e-Istehsal would be observed across Pakistan to protest against India’s illegal maneuvers. He called on the United Nations to enforce its Security Council resolutions concerning Kashmir and urged the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and other human rights organizations to intensify their efforts to end the repression faced by the Kashmiris.

Muqam emphasized the need for a UN-facilitated plebiscite, allowing Kashmiris to determine their own future, as a critical step towards resolving the long-standing conflict in the region.