Message from Ambassador Jalil Abbas Jilani on the Occasion of “Black Day” to Express Solidarity with Kashmiris
Pakistan is observing Black Day on 20th July 2016 to express solidarity with Kashmiris and to protest against grave human rights violations in the Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir. In a message to Pakistanis and Kashmiris living in the United States of America on this occasion, the Ambassador of Pakistan Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani paid glowing tributes to the people of Jammu & Kashmir for their heroic movement for the right to self-determination.
The recent upsurge in the state sponsored violence against civilian protesters has further exposed the tyrannical rule in J&K. After the martyrdom of Kashmiri freedom fighter Burhan Wani on 8th July 2016, the people of Kashmir turned in thousands to attend his funeral prayer and to protest Indian oppression.
Use of indiscriminate force against civilians, especially women and children, has resulted in the deaths of more than 40 innocent Kashmiris. More than 2500 are injured, a large number of themseverely. 150 injured youngsters have lost their eyesight due to pellet gun shots. Unfortunately, security forces have even tortured doctors and patients in hospitals
Curfew remains in force and media muzzled in IoK. Internet and mobile phone services have also been suspended. Hurriyat leaders who are the genuine representatives of Kashmiri aspirations have endured almost perpetual detention.
We hope and expect that the international community would fulfill their commitments towards the people of Jammu &Kashmir under the UNSC resolutions as well as take notice of the culture of impunity, grave human rights violations and state-sponsored terror in the occupied territory. Violence against innocent civilians must stop and basic human rights including the right to protest and political activity respected.
Prime Minister of Pakistan Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif has reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to stand with Kashmiris, extending moral, political and diplomatic support to them in their just struggle for right to self-determination.
July 20, 2016
Washington D.C
