Pakistan to mark August 5 as Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir with nationwide solidarity events: Amir Muqam

Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Engineer Amir Muqam, in a press conference on Monday, reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people and announced a series of national and international events to observe Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir on August 5—marking five years since India’s revocation of Articles 370 and 35A of its Constitution, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Muqam strongly condemned the Modi-led Indian government's unilateral move in 2019, which stripped Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and eroded the identity and rights of the Kashmiri people. "India violated international law and trampled the UN resolutions by forcefully annexing Kashmir. This day is a reminder of that grave injustice," he stated.

The minister revealed that since 1989, more than 96,000 Kashmiris have been martyred, over 4,000 killed in jails, and countless homes have been razed.

"Thousands of women have been widowed, and children orphaned, yet the spirit of the Kashmiri people remains unbroken. Their resilience is legendary," Muqam said, saluting their ongoing resistance.

He criticised the failure of the United Nations to implement its own resolutions on Kashmir and stressed that sustainable peace in South Asia would remain elusive until the Kashmir dispute is resolved in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people. "Pakistan rejects India’s constitutional amendments and will not accept any solution imposed against the will of the Kashmiris."

To commemorate Youm-e-Istehsal, Muqam announced a minute of silence at 10 AM across Pakistan on August 5. Demonstrations, solidarity rallies, and awareness campaigns will be held nationwide—including in Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and all provinces. Pakistani embassies abroad have been directed to hold protests and highlight the plight of Kashmiris on global forums.

“There will be full coordination with the Ministry of Information, CDA, and other departments,” the minister said, adding that Chief Ministers, Deputy Commissioners, and Pakistani missions abroad have been instructed to ensure the day is marked with dignity, unity, and determination.

Muqam also condemned the recent martyrdom of 10 innocent Kashmiris in fresh Indian aggression and emphasized that the issue transcends political divisions. “On August 5, let us not despair. Let us show the world that every Pakistani stands shoulder to shoulder with every Kashmiri. The struggle for freedom will not be silenced.”

A central rally is scheduled to be held in Islamabad, and Muqam appealed to the public to participate in large numbers. “We are contacting every corner of Pakistan and beyond to strengthen the national and international voice on Kashmir,” he concluded.