ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and communities around the world are observing Kashmir Exploitation Day today, August 5, in solidarity with the people of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
The day marks India’s August 5, 2019 decision to revoke the region’s special constitutional status by repealing Articles 370 and 35-A of the Indian Constitution.
The move ended Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and paved the way for the division of the former state into two federally administered territories — Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
Before the change, Article 370 provided Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir with its own constitution, a separate flag and significant powers over internal affairs. Article 35-A granted special rights and protections to permanent residents of the region.
Following the 2019 decision, widespread restrictions were imposed across the territory, including a communications blackout and a large deployment of security forces. Several Kashmiri political leaders were also detained as authorities moved to contain protests and unrest.
Pakistan rejected the Indian government’s move as illegal and subsequently downgraded diplomatic ties with New Delhi. Islamabad has continued to raise the Kashmir issue at international forums and observes August 5 each year as Kashmir Exploitation Day to reaffirm solidarity with the Kashmiri people.
The day is marked by rallies, seminars and other activities in Pakistan and by Kashmiri communities abroad, highlighting their call for a peaceful and just resolution of the long-running dispute.
