February 5 – Kashmir Solidarity Day
February 5 is observed as Kashmir Solidarity Day in Pakistan and around the world. This day is dedicated to expressing support for the oppressed people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have been struggling for decades to achieve freedom and their fundamental rights.
Kashmir Solidarity Day was first observed in Pakistan in 1990 when the then Chief Minister of Punjab, Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, and Jamaat-e-Islami leader Qazi Hussain Ahmed called for a nationwide strike and protests. Later, it was officially decided to observe this day annually at the national level. Since then, February 5 has been a public holiday in Pakistan, with special events, rallies, and gatherings held across the country.
The Kashmir conflict began in 1947 after the partition of the subcontinent when, against the wishes of the Kashmiri people, Maharaja Hari Singh decided to accede to India. Since then, the people of Kashmir have been resisting Indian occupation and demanding their right to self-determination as per United Nations resolutions. To oppress the freedom moment of Kashmiris, the Indian armed forces have unleashed brutal oppression in the occupied valley, and thousands of innocent Kashmiris have lost their lives in the struggle for freedom.
Every year on February 5, various activities are held in Pakistan, including a nationwide holiday, human chains, solidarity rallies, protests, prayers in mosques, and special broadcasts on media. In different cities across Pakistan, human chains are formed, while public and governmental events such as seminars and conferences are organized in support of the Kashmiri people. Electronic and print media air special programs to draw international attention to the issue.
Unfortunately, the international community has failed to play an effective role in resolving the Kashmir dispute. Despite United Nations resolutions, India refuses to grant Kashmiris their right to self-determination and continues to commit severe human rights violations in the region. However, the spirit of the Kashmiri people remains strong, and their struggle for freedom continues.
Kashmir Solidarity Day is not just a symbolic occasion but a reminder to Pakistan and the Muslim world that the fight for Kashmir’s freedom is ongoing. This day places a responsibility on all of us to continue supporting the Kashmiri people, raise awareness on the global stage, and stand by them in their struggle. The day is not far when the sun of freedom will rise, and the people of Kashmir will finally achieve their right to self-determination.
Assad Ullah Shah (PID Peshawar)