In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Democratic Freedom Party (DFP), led by incarcerated senior Hurriyat leader Shabir Ahmad Shah, has warmly welcomed Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent statement reaffirming his country’s unwavering support for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.
According to Kashmir Media Service, addressing a function in Bhimber, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, PM Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast political, moral, and diplomatic support for the Kashmiri people until they achieve their rightful freedom in accordance with United Nations resolutions. He assured that the sacrifices of the Kashmiris would not go in vain, and they will ultimately gain their freedom from India.
In a statement in Srinagar, DFP spokesman, Advocate Arshad Iqbal, described PM Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks as a significant morale booster for the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed deep gratitude to Pakistan for its continued support to Kashmiris’ just cause, calling the nation’s steadfast solidarity a beacon of hope for those struggling in IIOJK.
The DFP also condemned the harsh security measures imposed across the occupied territory in the lead-up to India’s Republic Day, describing it as another form of oppression. He said, “House-to-house searches, frisking at checkpoints, and heightened military presence have further exacerbated the daily suffering of Kashmiris”. The party termed India’s Republic Day as a “Black Day” for Kashmiris calling attention to India’s illegal occupation and systematic denial of Kashmiri political and human rights.
In a separate statement issued in Islamabad, Altaf Ahmed Bhat, Chairman of the Jammu Kashmir Salvation Movement (JKSM), lauded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s reaffirmed support for Kashmiris, calling it a pivotal move in amplifying the Kashmiris’ just struggle on global platforms. Bhat stressed that the resolution of the Kashmir dispute is essential for lasting peace in South Asia. He urged the international community to bolster Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and insisted on the immediate implementation of UN resolutions to safeguard Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.
