On the fifth anniversary of India revoking the special autonomy of occupied Kashmir, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged New Delhi to transition from “dispute denial to dispute resolution” for sustainable peace in South Asia. Pakistan is commemorating Youm-i-Istehsal (Exploitation Day) today to stand in solidarity with Kashmiris against India’s revocation of Kashmir’s special status in 2019. This move allowed Indian nationals to acquire property in Kashmir, leading to concerns about demographic changes.
Shehbaz emphasized the importance of resolving the Kashmir conflict for regional security and reiterated Pakistan’s support for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination. Indian forces’ actions in Kashmir were condemned by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), affirming solidarity with Kashmiris and condemning human rights violations. President Asif Ali Zardari criticized India for disregarding international laws in Kashmir.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar highlighted India’s efforts to “Indianize” Kashmir, emphasizing the unresolved nature of the Kashmir dispute under international law. As Pakistan observes Youm-i-Istehsal, various events, rallies, and protests are being organized to raise awareness about the ongoing crisis in Kashmir and advocate for a peaceful resolution.