Pakistan reiterates its political, moral, and diplomatic support to Kashmir’s right to self-determination.
RAWALPINDI: A sombre atmosphere prevailed across Rawalpindi on Monday as citizens, students, and officials observed Kashmir Black Day to condemn the Indian occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and reaffirm support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
City-Wide Observances
Various civic bodies, schools, and organizations marked the day with seminars, rallies, debates, and exhibitions.
Banners and streamers were displayed throughout the city, including metro stations and key public areas, while black flags were hoisted on educational institutions and health centres.
Speech and essay-writing competitions were organized in schools and colleges, alongside rallies that drew large crowds from diverse walks of life. A minute of silence followed by sirens paid tribute to Kashmiri martyrs and symbolized Pakistan’s unwavering support for the cause.
Cultural and Educational Activities
At the Rawalpindi Arts Council, a photo exhibition vividly depicted the ongoing atrocities in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Students presented national songs and tableaux, reflecting solidarity with Kashmiri freedom fighters.
Chief guest MNA Tahira Aurangzeb emphasized that “Kashmir is the jugular vein of Pakistan,” reaffirming that India’s occupation would never be accepted.
She lauded the resilience of Kashmiris and vowed continued diplomatic and moral support from Pakistan.
A documentary screening portrayed the suffering of the Kashmiri people under occupation, while special prayers and Fateha Khwani were held for the martyrs under the arrangement of the Auqaf Department.
Educational Institutions Participate
The District Education Authority and Directorate of Colleges organized special programmes, walks, debates, and awareness events in schools and colleges across the district, ensuring that the younger generation remained aware of the Kashmir cause and its historical context.
Kashmir Black Day in China
Parallel commemorations took place at the Pakistani Embassy in Beijing, where a solemn event highlighted the illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir by India on October 27, 1947.
Messages from Pakistan’s President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed Islamabad’s moral, political, and diplomatic commitment to the Kashmiri people in line with United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.
Ambassador Khalil Hashmi stressed the historical and legal significance of the Kashmir issue, acknowledging China’s consistent support for the right to self-determination. He underscored that a peaceful resolution was vital for lasting stability in South Asia.
A documentary and photo exhibition showcased the continued human rights violations in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), leaving a lasting impression on attendees.