August 5: IIOJK’s future is thrown under a menacing shadow

Dr. Sahibzada Muhammad Usman

August 5 holds a significant place in the hearts and minds of Kashmiris as it marks one of the most somber days in the region’s history. Back in 2019, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government made a momentous and contentious decision that reshaped the political landscape of Illegal Occupied of Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). They revoked Article 370 and 35-A, which granted special autonomy to the state. The move was met with widespread criticism from the IIOJK people and their leaders. It’s vital to explore the events of that fateful day and shed light on how it has impacted the region’s demographics, identity, and the ongoing struggle for self-determination.

Nayeem Ahmed Khan, a prominent figure in the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), vehemently condemned the events of August 5, 2019, viewing them as the beginning of Indian settler colonialism in IIOJK. According to him, India sought to alter the demographic makeup of the region, transforming its Muslim-majority into a minority.

Khan saw the abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A as not only a violation of the Indian Constitution but also a breach of United Nations resolutions and international treaties. He was resolute in labeling it a blatant disregard for international law and the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Khan emphasized that Kashmiris have persistently resisted India’s illegal occupation, and the public’s discontent against the occupation had intensified. Notably, even members of the Dogra and Hindu communities expressed their dissatisfaction with the new laws in the state. Despite India’s efforts, Kashmiris remained unwavering in their pursuit of political and democratic rights, as guaranteed by the United Nations.

Mahmood Ahmed Saghar, the Convener of the APHC in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), shared similar sentiments. He viewed August 5 as one of the darkest chapters in Kashmir’s history, symbolizing the Indian government’s unlawful actions that went against the UN resolutions. Saghar saw India’s move as an assault on the unique identity of Kashmiris and an attempt to alter the disputed status of IIOJK. Despite the oppression, Saghar stressed that Kashmiris would persist in their struggle for self-determination and called for global protests to draw attention to the plight of the IIOJK people.

Mushaal Hussein Mullick, the Chairperson of the Peace and Culture Organization, strongly denounced the unlawful termination of IIOJK’s special status on August 5, 2019. She criticized the international community’s silence regarding India’s actions, which she referred to as a land-grabbing crime. Mullick highlighted the inhumane tactics employed by the Indian army over the years and their efforts to change the region’s demographics by issuing domiciles to Hindus, leading to the displacement of the local population.

She expressed deep concern over human rights abuses and the lack of accountability in the region. Despite facing censorship in India and the IIOJK, Mullick firmly believed in the eventual liberation of IIOJK from Indian oppression, bolstered by the courage of its people and with the support of Secretary General Sabeen Hussain Mallick.

Ghulam Ahmed Azad, Chairman of the Peoples Political League, viewed August 5, 2019, as the darkest day in the history of IIOJK. He vehemently criticized the Modi regime for not only revoking IIOJK’s special status but also imposing a military siege that adversely affected every aspect of Kashmiri lives. Azad lamented the unjust imprisonment of thousands of IIOJK youth and activists under oppressive laws. Despite the oppression, he stressed that the morale of the IIOJK people remained resilient, and they firmly rejected India’s illegal control. Azad called upon the United Nations to resolve the IIOJK dispute in alignment with its resolutions and, most importantly, the aspirations of the IIOJ people.

Given the current situation in IIOJK, Pakistan finds itself facing numerous policy options in response to the developments on August 5, 2019:

⦁ One of the key strategies for Pakistan is to raise awareness about the widespread human rights abuses in IIOJK and gain support from various countries and international organizations. The primary objective is to shed light on the immense hardships endured by the IIOJK people and advocate for a peaceful resolution of the IIOJK dispute, rooted in relevant UN resolutions.

⦁ Another vital avenue for Pakistan is to extend unwavering support to the IIOJK people in their ongoing struggle for self-determination. This support can manifest in political, moral, and diplomatic backing, amplifying the voices of the IIOJK community on the global stage and ensuring their aspirations are heard and acknowledged.

⦁ To make significant progress, Pakistan must actively engage with other nations, particularly those with influence over India, to press for a peaceful resolution of the IIOJK conflict. By forging alliances and coalitions with like-minded countries, Pakistan can strengthen its efforts and garner broader international support to address the complex issue more effectively.

⦁ Recognizing the dire and challenging situation faced by the IIOJK people due to the ongoing conflict, Pakistan can play a pivotal role by providing humanitarian aid and relief. This assistance should be targeted towards those most adversely affected by the violence and curfews, as well as offering support to refugees who have been tragically displaced by the conflict. By offering a helping hand, Pakistan can bring much-needed relief and alleviate some of the suffering caused by the conflict in IIOJK.

⦁ Lastly, Pakistan can emphasize the importance of dialogue and negotiations between India and Pakistan to find a peaceful solution to the IIOJK dispute. Encouraging initiatives that foster peace and stability in the region is crucial for moving forward towards a lasting resolution.

August 5, 2019, will forever be etched in the memory of Kashmir and the world. The abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A marked a monumental shift in the region’s political landscape, with profound implications on IIOJK’s demography and identity. Leaders and activists in IIOJK continue to vocally condemn India’s actions, seeking solidarity from the global community in their ongoing struggle for self-determination.

The international response to this enduring issue remains a subject of intense debate, as some leader’s express disappointment with the silence of major world powers. As the resilient people of IIOJK persevere in their quest for political and democratic rights, the future of the region remains uncertain, and the call for justice and resolution reverberates through the breathtaking valleys of the beautiful yet troubled land of IIOJK. Pakistan has a crucial opportunity to proactively advocate for the rights of the Kashmiri people and contribute to a peaceful resolution of the IIOJK issue.

About Author:
Dr. Sahibzada Muhammad Usman
The writer holds a PhD in geopolitics and is the author of ‘Different Approaches on Central Asia: Economic, Security, and Energy’ with Lexington, USA.