ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday urged India to grant right to self-determination to Kashmiris as pledged by it before the world community.
In a message on the occasion of Black Day against atrocities of Indian security forces in IOK, he said no state can be allowed to trample human rights in the name of political interests and state strategy.
The Prime Minister said Kashmir cannot be considered internal affair of India as the United Nations has declared it a dispute and India itself made a commitment to hold plebiscite to determine will of the Kashmiri people.
Nawaz Sharif pointed out that if the issue of human rights violations in other countries can be raised at UN and other forums then why not the issue of human rights violations in IOK.
He said Pakistan cannot remain oblivious to Indian atrocities against people in held Kashmir.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan stands firmly with Kashmiri people at this hour of trial and would fight their case vigorously on diplomatic, political and human rights fronts.
President Mamnoon Hussain observed Black Day against Indian oppression in Kashmir and tied a black band on his arm in protest.
The staff of Aiwan-e-Sadr also wore black bands around their arms, symbolizing protest against the atrocities of Indian security forces in Occupied Kashmir.
Special prayers were also offered for an end to the plight of innocent Kashmiris.
Pakistan envoy to United Nations Maleeha Lodhi also delivered a letter to the president of UN Security Council written by Pakistan’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz.
She briefed the President of the UNSC on the situation in Indian occupied Kashmir.
The Ambassador said denial of self-determination to people of Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir has resulted in the most atrocious human rights violations.
Maleeha Lodhi said occupation forces are resorting to brutal acts to suppress the right of determination of Kashmiri people promised by UNSC resolutions
She said despite Indian suppression the Kashmiri people are determined to continue their struggle for freedom from foreign occupation.
Minister for Information and Broadcasting Pervaiz Rashid said that by observing the Black Day, people of Pakistan are trying to prick the conscience of the world community to fulfill pledges made to Kashmiri people.
Addressing participants of a protest rally in Islamabad, he said Kashmiris are raising their voice for their fundamental right.
He regretted that Indian occupation forces are killing and maiming youth in IOK only for pressing their demand for right to self-determination.
Addressing on this occasion, Personal Assistant to Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Dr. Asif Kirmani paid glowing tributes to martyrs of Kashmir and said sun of freedom will soon rise in IOK.
Special prayers were also offered for the martyrs and freedom held Kashmir.