ISLAMABAD 9 WNAM REPORT ): Senior Hurriyat leader and Chairman of Jammu Kashmir Salvation Movement and Altaf Ahmed Bhat has strongly endorsed the All Parties Hurriyat Conference’s (APHC) call to observe August 5 as Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir, urging the people of Indian-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) and across the globe to mark the day with a complete shutdown and peaceful resistance.
In a statement, Altaf Ahmed Bhat said that August 5, 2019, marks the darkest chapter in Kashmir’s political history—when India unilaterally abrogated Articles 370 and 35A, stripping the region of its limited autonomy and constitutional guarantees. “This day stands as a painful reminder of India’s treachery and brute occupation,” he said. “It is not just a date—it is a wound on the collective soul of Kashmir.”
Bhat praised the unwavering resilience of Kashmiris who, despite continued lockdowns, communication blackouts, and military repression, have never surrendered their will. “The spirit of our people remains unbroken. No amount of force can erase our identity or silence our legitimate demand for the right to self-determination,” he added.
He also strongly condemned Indian Home Minister Amit Shah’s provocative remarks against the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, calling them a desperate and dishonest attempt to discredit the legitimate and peaceful struggle of the Kashmiri people. He said branding Hurriyat as a “terrorist organization” is not just factually wrong but reflects India’s growing frustration over its failed policies in occupied Jammu & Kashmir. Mr. Bhat emphasized that Hurriyat represents the genuine political voice of Kashmiris, rooted in democratic principles and the internationally recognized right to self-determination. He called on the global community to reject this false narrative and hold India accountable for its continued denial of basic human rights and its violations of international law.
Bhat also highlighted the urgent need for international diplomatic engagement, calling on Pakistan to spearhead a global campaign for Kashmir. “Delegations representing the people of Azad Kashmir and IIOJK must be sent to capitals across the world to expose the ongoing human rights abuses and dismantle India’s false narrative,” he said.
He appealed to the Kashmiri diaspora—particularly in the UK, US, Middle East, and Europe—to intensify their efforts and raise global awareness. “The sons and daughters of Kashmir living abroad must become ambassadors of truth and justice. The world must hear our story from those who carry the pain of exile and separation,” he urged.
Bhat emphasized the need for the immediate and dignified rehabilitation of displaced families from IIOJK, many of whom have lived in uncertainty for decades. “These families deserve more than sympathy—they need housing, healthcare, education, and a future,” he said.
Calling for urgent humanitarian intervention, he demanded the release of all political detainees, including Shabbir Ahmad Shah, Dr Hameed Fayyaz, Yasin Malik, Masarat Alam Bhat, Zaffar Akbar Bhat, Asiya Andrabi, Nayeem Ahmad Khan, and hundreds of others unlawfully imprisoned. “These leaders are not criminals—they are the conscience of Kashmir. Denying them basic medical care in jails is a violation of international law,” Bhat warned.
“Let August 5 be observed as a day of defiance and remembrance,” he said. “Our protest will send a clear message: the Kashmiri nation rejects illegal occupation and stands united in its peaceful quest for freedom and dignity.”
Altaf Ahmed Bhat paid rich tributes to the martyrs of Kashmir and vowed that their sacrifices will never be forgotten. “Their blood continues to water the tree of resistance. Our mission is clear. Our path is just. And our resolve is unshakable.”
