Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi Hosts Seminar on India’s Illegal Occupation of Jammu & Kashmir

By: Aziz Khatri

 Karachi: The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi organized a seminar titled “India’s Illegal Occupation of Jammu & Kashmir and the Role of the International Community” at the Haseena Moin Hall. The session began with the recitation of the Holy Quran.

Prominent speakers included senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Sheikh Abdul Mateen; former Minister of the Government of Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Farzana Yaqoob; renowned analyst Sardar Nazakat; Dr. Sabir Abu Maryam; Qazi Farooqi Adeel; and Saleem Butt. The session was moderated by Bashir Sadozai.

Sheikh Abdul Mateen emphasized that freedom is a divine blessing that must be cherished and protected. He described the dire situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir, where the culture and faith of Kashmiris are being systematically targeted. “This issue is a test from Allah Almighty,” he said, adding that the stronger Pakistan becomes, the stronger the Kashmiri freedom movement will be. “The people of Kashmir seek a permanent, not temporary, resolution to the issue,” he added.

Farzana Yaqoob noted that October 27 is marked as a “Black Day” due to India’s illegal actions in Kashmir. She highlighted that India had already established a military presence in the region before its formal occupation. “Power brings respect, not wealth,” she remarked, quoting Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s words that “Kashmir is Pakistan’s jugular vein.” She praised Pakistan’s strong response in recent times and commended the Arts Council for organizing events that blend art and expression.

Sardar Nazakat reaffirmed the Pakistani nation’s unwavering support for Kashmiris, urging continued seminars to raise awareness. He thanked Arts Council President Mohammad Ahmed Shah for consistently hosting meaningful programs.

Qazi Farooqi Adeel addressed the Kashmir issue from a human rights angle, regretting the international community’s indifference. “Our youth have been labelled as terrorists, our sisters’ honor has been violated,” he said, vowing that persistent struggle will expose these injustices. “The day is not far when Kashmiris will live freely with dignity,” he asserted.

Dr. Sabir Abu Maryam stated that the Kashmir and Palestine issues are humanitarian concerns, not just territorial disputes. “Standing with the Kashmiri people is our duty as Muslims and humans,” he emphasized, stressing the need to spread awareness.

The seminar drew a large crowd of political and social figures, as well as the general public, underscoring ongoing solidarity with the Kashmiri cause.