Pakistan observes Youm-e-Istehsal in show of solidarity with Kashmir

Youm-e-Istehsal (exploitation day) is being observed today (August 5) across Pakistan against India’s illegal move to revoke Kashmir's special autonomy.

On August 5, 2019, the Narendra Modi-led Indian government illegally abrogated Article 370 of the constitution.

The move allowed people from the rest of India to have the right to acquire property in occupied Kashmir and settle there permanently.

Article 370 had also limited the power of the Indian parliament to impose laws in the state, apart from matters of defence, foreign affairs and communications.

On the occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari said that India’s actions in the IIJOK showed its disregard for international laws and the aspirations of the people of Kashmir and the UN Security Council.

“It's unilateral actions,” said President Zardari in his message on Youm-e-Istehsal. 

He added that India’s unilateral actions undermined the region’s status of an internationally recognised dispute.

The President further said that the presence of Indian troops in IOKJ turned the territory into military land and prevented most of them from the right of self-determination.

President @AAliZardari's message on Youm-e-Istehsal - 5th August 2024

#یومِ_استحصال
Read More: https://t.co/A58SGg7N4E pic.twitter.com/JjzCajvGNJ

— PPP (@MediaCellPPP) August 4, 2024

“On the fifth Youm-e-Istehsal, I stand with the entire Pakistani nation in expressing unwavering solidarity with our Kashmiri brothers and sisters,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in a post on X. 

He demanded the international community must make efforts to ensure justice and peace in the region.

On the fifth Youm-e-Istehsal , I stand with the entire Pakistani nation in expressing unwavering solidarity with our Kashmiri brothers and sisters. The people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir must be granted their legitimate and inalienable right to…

— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) August 5, 2024

Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani said the day will be remembered as a "dark day" in history.