ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday reiterated that lasting peace and stability in South Asia would remain unattainable without the just and peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in line with United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
In his message marking Kashmir Black Day on October 27, the prime minister described the day as “the darkest chapter in the history of Kashmir,” recalling that it was on this day in 1947 that Indian forces entered Srinagar and occupied the territory. “Ever since that fateful day, India continues to deny the Kashmiri people their inalienable right to self-determination,” he said.
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Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) for their “unmatched courage, resilience, and unyielding spirit” in the face of oppression. He condemned India’s actions since August 5, 2019, including the revocation of Kashmir’s special status and the imposition of restrictions on movement, expression, and political activity.
The prime minister also criticized the continued detention of Kashmiri leaders, activists, and journalists under what he called “fabricated charges,” labeling it a violation of international human rights standards. “By imposing such draconian laws, India has launched a systematic campaign to silence legitimate political voices,” he added.
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Reaffirming Pakistan’s consistent stance, the prime minister said, “Pakistan stands firmly with its Kashmiri brothers and sisters and will continue to advocate for their right to self-determination.” He concluded by expressing hope that justice would prevail and that “the day is not far when the promise of self-determination, pledged by the international community, will be fulfilled.”