In Rawalpindi social leader Muhammad Aamir Siddiqui, president of a progressive welfare organisation, addressed party workers on the occasion of Azad Jammu Kashmir Day, reaffirming commitment to the Kashmiri cause. He described freedom as a supreme blessing and said proud nations always place their liberty first while paying tribute to those who sacrificed for it.
Mr Siddiqui noted that today marks the 78th founding day of the Azad Jammu Kashmir government, remembered each year on 24 October since 1947 when brave sons of the region freed areas from Dogra rule. He said the observance is being held with renewed determination to keep the struggle for the complete liberation of occupied Jammu and Kashmir at the forefront until the Kashmiri people achieve their rights.
Highlighting recent developments, he recalled that India revoked Articles 370 and 35A on 5 August six years ago, an action he described as a blatant violation of United Nations resolutions and the special status long recognised for the disputed state. He underlined that the illegal military siege in Indian occupied Kashmir has entered its 2272nd day and stressed that Kashmiris deserve the promised free and fair plebiscite to determine their future.
Speaking on Pakistan’s role, Muhammad Aamir Siddiqui said Pakistan will continue to provide political, social and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people. He expressed confidence that the period of oppression will end and that the people of Kashmir will eventually decide their destiny themselves.
Mr Siddiqui called on the United Nations and the international community to raise a strong and effective voice for the oppressed Kashmiri population and to press for their right to self determination in line with existing UN commitments.
