August 5th, 2019, remains etched in our memories as a painful day for all who hold moral, legal, and social values dear. The question lingers: What did Modi truly gain from this ill-fated decision? The harsh reality is that the situation in occupied Kashmir has only worsened since. The common Kashmiri is left frustrated, perceiving the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A as a blatant denial of their fundamental human rights. The resolute voices of Kashmiris declare their unwavering refusal to accept India’s unlawful occupation.
Despite New Delhi’s assertions of control following the August 5th move, the truth remains veiled beneath a facade. The Modi government has callously stripped the civilized and honorable Kashmiri people of their basic rights. Indian security forces persist in their violent actions, claiming the lives of young Kashmiris and subjecting them to unjust abductions. Fear has become a tool employed by New Delhi, a tactic that stands in stark contrast to the principles upheld by the modern world.
The disturbing reality is that India has disregarded the very principles outlined for Kashmiris in UN resolutions, denying them their rightful rights. The impartiality of human rights organizations casts doubt on the possibility of normalcy when leaders of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference remain imprisoned or confined to their homes. The aspirations of genuine Kashmiri leaders to connect with their supporters have been thwarted by the heavy hand of Indian security forces.
Amidst these troubling circumstances, the international community’s silence on the heinous crimes committed by the Indian government is deafening. The world’s major powers often prioritize their financial interests, overshadowing the call for justice and human rights. The West’s geopolitical considerations, particularly its view of India as a counterbalance to China, have hindered any substantial international pressure on India to reconsider its Kashmir policy.
This brings us to Pakistan’s role in this complex situation. Pakistan persists in its efforts to highlight the plight of Kashmiris to the international community. The Prime Minister of Pakistan has unequivocally expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue with India to address all disputes, including the longstanding Kashmir issue. Shabaz Sharif, too, has emphasized the necessity for peaceful coexistence between two nuclear-armed neighbors.
However, within the realm of Indian politics, the narrative of enmity with Pakistan and appeals to Hindu extremists seem to persist. As India stands on the brink of another general election, the BJP’s focus appears fixated on retaining power rather than offering respite to the beleaguered people of Kashmir. The BJP’s leadership mindset underscores the worsening situation in occupied Kashmir, where an unrelenting approach is deemed necessary to cater to their staunch supporters.
Against this backdrop, the observance of “Youm e Istehsal” on August 5th serves as a solemn message to the inhumane and undemocratic Indian stance. It is a day that symbolizes unwavering commitment to the cause of Kashmiri freedom. The pledge stands firm: the Kashmiri freedom movement shall endure, as a testament to the indomitable spirit of a people yearning for their rightful independence. Despite the obstacles and challenges, the Kashmiri people remain steadfast in their determination. As time passes, observers anticipate that India’s presence in Kashmir will eventually recede, paving the way for the triumphant emergence of freedom from the shadows of Indian oppression.