rki.news
Altaf Hamid Rao

Mirpur (AJK), the lake-side district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), celebrated the 86th Pakistan Day on March 23 with unmatched enthusiasm, zeal, and fervor, joining the rest of the country in honoring the historic occasion.
The major Pakistan Day flag-hoisting ceremony in this district, home to over a million UK-based Kashmiri expatriates, was solemnized at Mirpur city. Ch. Usman Khalid Ali, Raja Sadaqat Hussain, Khurram Iqbal, and Dr. Ijaz Raja unfurled the national flags of Pakistan and AJK to mark the day. A full-dress AJK police contingent presented a ceremonial salute, while notable representatives from civil society, elected officials, and local administration officials attended the event.
Speaking to the media, the leaders emphasized the historic significance of Pakistan Day and highlighted the Kashmiris’ unwavering resolve to continue their struggle for the liberation of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and its eventual accession to Pakistan. They paid tribute to the heroes of the Pakistan movement who, under the dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, laid the foundations of a separate homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent.
The celebrations also included cultural programs, patriotic speeches, and community gatherings, where locals and students performed national songs and recited poetry praising Pakistan and AJK. Throughout Mirpur district, national flags of Pakistan and AJK were hoisted atop public and private buildings, while illuminations adorned key structures as a sign of jubilation.
The celebrations reflected Kashmiris’ deep-rooted love, loyalty, and historic connection with Pakistan, their sole destination historically, geographically, culturally, and spiritually. The day served as a reminder of the enduring bond between the people of Kashmir and Pakistan, inspiring future generations to honor the vision of their forefathers.