By ABDULLAH 
On August 5, 2025, Pakistan marks Youm-e-Istehsal (Day of Exploitation) with solemnity and unwavering solidarity for the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). This annual observance is a poignant reminder of India’s unilateral revocation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, stripping Kashmir of its special constitutional status—an action rejected globally by Kashmiris, Pakistan, and international human rights watchdogs.
Table of Contents
Across Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan, and Pakistani diplomatic missions worldwide, rallies, silent protests, solidarity walks, and special broadcasts are being held to highlight the ongoing human rights violations in the region.
A significant rally in Islamabad, starting from the Foreign Office and culminating at D-Chowk, drew participation from political leaders, civil society members, and the general public. A minute of silence was observed at 10:00 AM nationwide to honor the martyrs of the Kashmiri freedom struggle.
In a strong statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, along with all military service chiefs, reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ resolute support for the people of IIOJK. The message emphasized unwavering solidarity with the brave Kashmiris facing relentless Indian repression, echoing the Pakistani nation’s firm backing of their right to self-determination.
The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, declared August 5 as a “Black Day”, stating that “the mask has fallen off India’s so-called democratic face.” He criticized the international community’s deafening silence over 75 years of human rights violations, while reaffirming unconditional support for Kashmiris’ freedom movement.
Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and GB, Engineer Amir Muqam, condemned the demographic engineering in IIOJK post-2019. He highlighted India’s systematic steps such as:
- Issuing domiciles to non-Kashmiris
- Allowing outsiders to purchase land
- Changing electoral boundaries
- Suppressing Kashmiri identity, culture, and media
Muqam warned that India’s acts violate UN Security Council resolutions, international law, and the Fourth Geneva Convention. He urged the global community to intervene and hold India accountable for its oppressive policies.
Pakistani embassies and missions across the globe have also held events, exhibitions, and conferences, amplifying Kashmir’s voice on the international stage. They’ve appealed to world powers and international bodies to:
- Demand release of political prisoners
- End the media blackout in IIOJK
- Ensure implementation of UN resolutions
Special media transmissions, documentaries, and public awareness campaigns are spotlighting the sacrifices of Kashmiri leaders and the brutalities inflicted by Indian forces. Prominent news channels, radio stations, and digital platforms have devoted airtime to amplify Kashmiri voices suppressed under draconian counterterrorism laws.
Youm-e-Istehsal 2025 serves not only as a day of protest against India’s actions in Kashmir but also as a renewed pledge from Pakistan to continue its political, diplomatic, and moral support for the Kashmiri people. While India attempts to rewrite the future of Kashmir through force, Pakistan and its people remain steadfast, standing shoulder to shoulder with their Kashmiri brethren in their quest for justice, dignity, and freedom.