ISLAMABAD: Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Senator Rubina Khalid on Tuesday described August 5, 2019, as one of the “darkest days” in South Asian history, saying that India’s decision to revoke Articles 370 and 35-A had changed the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir through what she termed unilateral measures.
In her message on Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir, Senator Rubina Khalid said the disputed status of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be altered through unilateral actions and called for the resolution of the issue in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions and international law.
She said the international community has a responsibility to ensure that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are granted their right to self-determination as outlined in UN resolutions.
The BISP chairperson also expressed concern over the situation in the region, stating that restrictions on civil liberties, arrests, and limitations on freedom of expression require international attention.
“Pakistan will continue to extend diplomatic, moral, and political support to the Kashmiri people at every forum,” she said.
Senator Rubina Khalid said Youm-e-Istehsal serves as a reminder of Pakistan’s commitment to standing with the Kashmiri people, adding that their struggle represents a demand for justice, rights, and human dignity.
She urged the international community to conduct an impartial assessment of the human rights situation in Jammu and Kashmir and play an effective role in addressing issues related to restrictions, political challenges, and humanitarian concerns.
Paying tribute to those who lost their lives in Kashmir, she said their sacrifices remain a significant part of the movement and expressed hope for a peaceful and lasting resolution.
She further stated that sustainable peace in South Asia depends on a just and durable settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant United Nations resolutions.
Also Read: Rubina Khalid Addresses BISP Beneficiaries’ Concerns in Live E-Katcheri
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