Islamabad, Marking the 76th anniversary of what is termed as the ‘Kashmir Black Day’, Dr. Arif Alvi, the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, today reflected on the historical events of October 27, 1947. The day signifies the start of Indian occupation in Jammu and Kashmir, with President Alvi drawing attention to the ongoing plight of Kashmiris, their prolonged fight for self-determination, and the need for a peaceful resolution based on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.

According to a news release by the Press International Department, Dr. Alvi emphasized the significance of the day, noting the subsequent years of adversity faced by the Kashmiri people under the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) administration. He criticized India’s unilateral actions, especially those taken on August 5, 2019, considering them a clear violation of UNSC resolutions and international law. The President stressed that attempts to alter the region’s demographics and solidify India’s occupation undermine the Kashmiri people’s democratic rights.

President Alvi paid tribute to the Kashmiris’ courage and tenacity, acknowledging their ongoing resistance against oppressive measures imposed by the Indian forces. He reaffirmed that their sacrifices in the pursuit of self-determination would not be overlooked.

The President voiced his concerns over the deteriorating human rights situation in the region, highlighting the restrictions placed on Kashmiri leadership and the suppression of their voices. He called on the international community and the media to shed light on the dire circumstances faced by the Kashmiri people and to hold India accountable for the alleged human rights abuses in IIOJK.

In terms of regional peace, Dr. Alvi highlighted the significance of a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in alignment with the relevant UNSC resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. He stated that India’s attempts to quell the Kashmiris’ freedom movement using force would prove futile. The President concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support and solidarity with the Kashmiri people, committing to advocate for a resolution as outlined by the UNSC and aspired to by the Kashmiris.