Islamabad: The sixth anniversary of India’s actions on August 5, 2019, in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) is being observed. On that day, India revoked the special status of IIOJK, dividing it into two ‘Union Territories.’ This move altered the internationally-recognized disputed status and challenged the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
Over the past six years, Indian authorities have implemented measures to change IIOJK’s demographic structure and political landscape. These actions include redrawing electoral constituencies, adding non-Kashmiris to electoral rolls, issuing domicile certificates to outsiders, and granting more administrative powers to the Lieutenant Governor. New laws on land and property ownership have also been introduced.
India’s increased control in IIOJK since August 5, 2019, has raised concerns about the potential disempowerment of the Kashmiri community. Many local leaders remain imprisoned, while arbitrary detentions and ‘cordon and search’ operations have become routine. The local media faces restrictions, limiting freedoms of expression and assembly. The Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination remains unfulfilled.
In light of India’s recent actions against Pakistan, this year’s “Youm-e-Istehsal” holds added significance. The success of ‘Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos’ is seen as a point of pride in Pakistan. However, the day highlights the ongoing need for a resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people for lasting peace in South Asia.