February 5 marks the observation of the Kashmir Solidarity Day also called “Youm-e- Yakjehti” in Pakistan. It is observed every year since 1990 as an expression of solidarity and support to Kashmir’s struggle for self-determination and liberation.
On the date, there is a public holiday. Prayers, conferences, marches, rallies, and programs are conducted all across the country to pay homage to Kashmir freedom fighters, support the ongoing struggle, and echo a censure against Indian oppression.
A popular spectacle is the forming of a human chain (people making a row with their hands clasped) on all leading routes to Azad Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistan to symbolize unity and fraternity with brothers and sisters of Kashmir.
Not only in Pakistan, but globally, Muslims carry out fervent rallies and speeches to observe the day. Television shows broadcast happenings live from all corners of the world. A few non-Muslims and non-Pakistani groups also occasionally stand up to support the cause for humanity.
Kashmir Day, 2018
This year, preparations to observe the national cause of the freedom of Kashmir are in full swing. Programs, conferences, and contests are scheduled to engage masses in the cause. It is decided to observe a minute of silence Pakistan-wide at 10 A.M. on Monday, February 5, 2018, to echo harmony with the voice of the oppressed Kashmiris.
Backdrop
Indian-held Kashmir also called Jammu and Kashmir is the territory that India rules over against the Security Council’s Resolution on Kashmir. The resolution obliges India to hold a free and fair plebiscite on the question whether the citizens of Kashmir want to accede to Pakistan or India. India never holds a plebiscite and continues to commit atrocities on Muslim citizens of the valley.
In 2015, India grew more brutal killing Kashmiris in bulk. It’s soldiers used non-lethal weapons (Pellet guns) on peaceful demonstrators that caused extensive arbitrary deaths and grievous wounds.
On April 9 in 2017, an Indian army major, Nitin Gogoi, tied a Muslim 26-year old boy to a jeep and paraded him publicly in 26 villages. According to the boy, he was returning after casting a vote when he bumped into those soldiers who accused and punished him of stone pelting.
Tensions between both the countries have heightened since. There is a frequency of ceasefire violations and LOC skirmishes.
