To understand the dynamics of observing ‘Kashmir Solidarity Day’ one needs to peep into the history to learn how Indians occupied Kashmir. When the sub-continent was being divided, it was decided by the Boundary Commission that the princely states had to accede to either Pakistan or India vis-à-vis their geographical location and communal demography. With 87% of Muslim population, Kashmir was naturally to join Pakistan under the partition formula but for Indian mischief, Maharaja Hari Singh, the ruler of Kashmir was forced to accede the state to India. The Maharaja signed the accession to India document in October 1947 and since that fateful day Kashmiris continue to struggle to exercise their right of self determination. Strange as it may sound, the world conscience remains oblivious of the plight and multiple violations of human rights by Indian armed forces despite Kashmiris raising their voices at international forums. One such forum is the United Nations where India had itself taken the Kashmir issue that eventually transformed into an internationally recognized dispute between India and Pakistan.

Indians and the world at large needs to acknowledge that Kashmir dispute is still on the agenda of UN Security Counsel. In fact Kashmir problem was taken to UN Security Council by India. In 47th (1948) Resolution of 21 April 1948 of UN Security Council India accepted Kashmir as a disputed area and resolved to solve the issue through impartial plebiscite, which never took place. India has a long history of deceitful dealings with Pakistan and has continuously mutilated the rights of the people of Kashmir. Under these circumstances it would be binding on the government and people of Pakistan to extend moral and diplomatic support to the people of occupied Kashmir in their struggle for independence from Indian oppression. One only wishes that the biggest democracy of the world becomes democratic and stops unlashing atrocities against hapless Kashmir’s. That will pave the way for the regional development providing relief to the largest concentration of people living below poverty line in the world. Only if Indian leadership understands.

You are remembered for the rules you break. (Douglas MacArthur )