rki.news

Altaf Hamid Rao.

MIRPUR (AJK), Feb. 5: Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) observed Kashmir Solidarity Day with unprecedented enthusiasm and fervor, as citizens across the region participated in rallies, demonstrations, and human chains to express unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIoJK). The day was marked by powerful slogans of “Kashmir Baney Ga Pakistan” and widespread engagement from political leaders, civil society, social organizations, and ordinary citizens.
The observance reaffirmed Pakistan and AJK’s steadfast commitment to the Kashmiri people’s legitimate struggle for self-determination, liberation from occupation, and the protection of their fundamental rights. The day also served to highlight the unresolved Kashmir dispute at the international level and reassure the Kashmiri people that they are not alone in their hour of trial.
A one-minute silence was observed at 10:00 a.m. across AJK to honor the martyrs of Kashmir, during which all road and rail traffic came to a halt. Human chains were formed on seven key bridges linking AJK with Pakistan, including Mangla, Kohala, Dhalkot, Azad Pattan, Bhimber, Holar, and Bararkot. Thousands of participants from both sides joined hands in a symbolic gesture of unity, solidarity, and fraternity, reflecting the enduring bonds between the peoples of Pakistan and Kashmir.
In Mirpur, large crowds from adjoining Punjab districts, including Dina and Jhelum, gathered at Mangla Bridge, led by Rana Mashood Ahmed Khan, Chairman Pakistan Prime Minister’s Youth Program, alongside elected representatives, civil society leaders, and social activists. Key figures included AJK Minister for Kashmir Cause Mrs. Nabeela Ayub, District Council Chairman Raja Naveed Akhter, Commissioner Mirpur Division Raja Tahir Mumtaz, DIG Police Dr. Khalid Mahmood Chohan, Deputy Commissioner Raja Sadaqat Khan, and Deputy Mayor Ramzan Chughtai, among other senior officials and community leaders.
Participants presented the national flag of Pakistan to AJK leaders, who in turn presented the AJK flag to visiting representatives and officials from Pakistan, symbolizing enduring solidarity and mutual respect. The day-long events across all major cities, districts, and tehsils, including Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Kotli, Bhimber, Rawalakot, Bagh, Palandri, Haveli, Hattiyan, and Neelam Valley, featured rallies, seminars, and public gatherings reaffirming commitments to support the Kashmiri cause diplomatically, politically, and morally.
The observance this year took place against the backdrop of India’s August 5, 2019 unilateral action revoking Jammu & Kashmir’s special constitutional status under Articles 370 and 35-A. The abrogation intensified oppression in the occupied valley, turning it into one of the world’s largest prisons, with mass arrests of peaceful protestors under the shadow of military occupation. Rallies and human chains reiterated Kashmiris’ appeals to the United Nations to take immediate action against India for violating UN resolutions and international law regarding the disputed territory.
The events emphasized the inseparable ties between Pakistan and Kashmir, symbolically represented by rivers flowing toward Pakistan and historic cultural connections, which continue to fuel hopes of freedom and justice for the Kashmiri people. Leaders and participants also highlighted the importance of people-to-people engagement, cultural exchange, and public mobilization to maintain sustained awareness of the Kashmir issue globally.
Kashmir Solidarity Day 2026 in AJK demonstrated unified resolve, resilience, and commitment to the Kashmiri cause, reinforcing Pakistan and AJK’s role as responsible stakeholders in regional peace and justice. The day not only celebrated solidarity but also strengthened public awareness of Kashmiris’ ongoing struggle, ensuring that their legitimate aspirations remain firmly supported and recognized internationally.