Islamabad: On Jammu Martyrs' Day, President Asif Ali Zardari delivered a solemn tribute to the Kashmiri Muslims who were killed in the Jammu massacre of November 1947. In his message, he reiterated Pakistan's solidarity with the families affected by the violence and displacement during that period, underscoring the enduring impact these events have had on the region.
According to Pakistan Peoples Party, President Zardari highlighted the historical context of the violence, pointing out the role of the Dogra rulers and extremist militias in the systematic campaign against Jammu's Muslim population. He emphasized that the atrocities resulted in significant loss of life and forced displacement, altering the demographic landscape of the region. Zardari asserted that such events must not be forgotten, as they continue to influence current tensions.
Zardari called attention to recent reports by Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, which document ongoing human rights concerns in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He noted instances of arbitrary detentions, restrictions on dissent, and media suppression, which have also drawn alarm from UN human rights experts. These reports point to the use of security laws to silence journalists and human rights defenders, urging international scrutiny.
The president also expressed alarm over the promotion of anti-Muslim rhetoric and hostility towards Pakistan by political figures and extremist groups in India. He warned that such rhetoric, especially after India's military setback in May 2025, could exacerbate persecution and provoke further conflicts. Zardari urged accountability and protection for vulnerable communities and cautioned against exploiting communal tensions for political diversion.
Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to peace, stressing that dialogue should not be mistaken for weakness. He emphasized the potential consequences of conflict between nuclear-armed nations and advocated for a peaceful resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in line with UN Security Council resolutions and Kashmiri aspirations.
In his message, Zardari called on the international community, particularly the United Nations, to address the issues raised by human rights organizations. He urged India to reverse actions taken since August 2019, release detainees, protect journalists, and cooperate with UN human rights mechanisms. Zardari reiterated Pakistan's support for the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination and pledged continued advocacy at international forums.
The president concluded by honoring the martyrs of 1947 and expressing hope for freedom, peace, and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.