Kashmir Solidarity Day is being observed today throughout Pakistan and on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) to express solidarity with the people of Kashmir for their just struggle for their right to self-determination.
The day is a regular annual event being marked to support the indigenous freedom struggle of the people of Indian Occupied Kashmir and their right to plebiscite; and to condemn Indian aggression on the held valley, its illegal occupation and atrocities against innocent people.
The day is observed in a bid to draw the attention of international community to recognise the urgency of resolving the outstanding Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India for peace and stability in the region of South Asia. Different organisations, political and religious parties have chalked out elaborate programmes to observe the day with full zeal and fervour to express solidarity with the people of Indian-held Kashmir and pay tribute to the sacrifices of Kashmiri martyrs.
Civil Societies and various other organisations would also hold rallies, seminars and processions to express unity with the people of Kashmir. The day will start with special prayers at mosques for freedom of Kashmiri people. The government has declared public holiday, and all government offices, banks, education institutions and businesses will remain closed.
The dawn will start with special prayers at mosques for freedom of Kashmiri people. One minute's silence will be observed at 10 am. Public will participate in the one-minute silence to be held in honour of the Kashmiri shuhada. A human chain will be formed by the people of Pakistan and Kashmir at the Kohala Bridge, linking Pakistan with Azad Kashmir, as a gesture of oneness and commitment to their brethren in Occupied Kashmir.
Talk shows, conventions, essay competitions will be held in connection with Kashmir Day celebrations. Banners have also been put up on roads to express solidarity with Kashmiris. A senior PML-N leader, Mohammad Pervaiz Malik, told Business Recorder that Kashmiris are engaged in a "peaceful struggle for their right to self-determination in accordance with the United Nations Charter.