- Panel discussion highlights the need for Kashmir’s liberation to achieve peace in South Asia.
- Speakers condemn India’s actions and violations of UN resolutions and the Shimla Agreement.
- Calls for international intervention and dialogue between India and Pakistan were emphasized.
In Lahore, a panel discussion marked Kashmir Exploitation Day, with experts asserting that true peace in South Asia hinges on Kashmir’s liberation. They condemned India’s actions in Kashmir, arguing that restoring the region’s special status is crucial.
The event featured prominent figures including Mujeeb-ur-Rehman Shami, Salman Ghani, and Professor Irum Khalid, who criticized India’s August 5, 2019, move to revoke Kashmir’s autonomy. They described the action as a violation of both the Shimla Agreement and UN resolutions, turning Kashmir into what they called a “torture cell.”
Shami highlighted that while peace should be sought through dialogue, India’s actions have worsened the situation. Ghani accused the Indian government of fascism and warned that the struggle for Kashmir’s freedom will continue. He noted that the region’s issues could not be resolved without addressing the core disputes and injustices.
Najam Wali echoed these sentiments, urging international intervention to stop what he termed a genocide in Kashmir and Palestine. He called on Pakistan to strengthen itself economically and politically to better support the Kashmir cause.
Professor Khalid and Dr. Muneeba Iftikhar emphasized the need to remember and educate about the ongoing crisis. They called for greater global awareness and effective use of media and social platforms to expose the reality of the situation in Kashmir.
The event concluded with a solidarity walk organized by the Press Information Department, featuring participants holding banners and placards in support of Kashmiris.