ISLAMABAD — July 13: Speaker of the National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, solemnly paid tribute to the martyrs of Kashmir on the occasion of Kashmir Martyrs’ Day, observed annually on July 13 to commemorate the sacrifice of 22 Kashmiris martyred in 1931 outside the Central Jail in Srinagar.
Addressing the significance of the day, Speaker Sadiq stated, “The sacrifices of the Kashmir Martyrs constitute an indelible chapter in the annals of the Kashmiri freedom movement.” He emphasized that these brave individuals gave their lives in pursuit of truth, justice, and the inalienable right to self-determination, laying the foundation of the Kashmiri resistance against tyranny.
The NA Speaker condemned the decades-long Indian state-sponsored oppression in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), including widespread human rights violations, demographic reengineering, communication blackouts, and militarized crackdowns. He stressed that despite the brutal tactics, the Kashmiri people remain unwavering in their resolve for freedom.
“Indian atrocities cannot subdue the resilience of the Kashmiri people; Pakistan will persist in extending unequivocal support to their just cause,” Speaker Sadiq affirmed. He reiterated that the right to self-determination, as recognized by United Nations Security Council resolutions, is a legitimate demand that must be fulfilled.
Calling upon the international community, the United Nations, and global human rights watchdogs, the Speaker urged immediate attention and tangible, result-oriented actions to address the humanitarian crisis in Kashmir. He stressed that the global conscience must rise against injustice and support the Kashmiri people’s quest for dignity and freedom.
Speaker Sadiq also highlighted that Pakistan’s Parliament, through several unanimous resolutions, has continually reaffirmed its moral, political, and diplomatic support for the Kashmiri struggle. He assured that Pakistan would stand firmly with Kashmir until a peaceful and lawful resolution is reached.
Joining in the tribute, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, paid homage to the martyrs of Kashmir and praised the unshakable spirit of the Kashmiri people. He expressed confidence that their sacrifices would not be in vain, and the day is near when Kashmir will attain freedom and justice.
The Deputy Speaker also called on the international community to hold India accountable for its repressive policies and to uphold the universal principles of human rights and self-determination. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s enduring commitment to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Kashmir.
