ISLAMABAD: Speakers at a seminar in Islamabad on Saturday called on the international community to intervene in the Kashmir dispute in order to protect the right of Kashmiris to self-determination and promote peace and stability in the area.
The seminar, titled “From Amritsar Treaty to Abrogation: Kashmir’s Journey for Self-Determination and Peace,” was organized by the Jammu Kashmir Peace & Justice Organization (JKPJO) and attended by notable scholars, youth activists, locals, and women.
During the event’s two sessions, speakers highlighted Kashmir’s history and ongoing struggles, particularly emphasizing the repercussions of the Treaty of Amritsar signed in 1846. The British East India Company and Ranjit Singh of the Sikh state of Punjab, perpetuated decades of exploitation and marginalization under Dogra’s rule.
Tanveer-ul-Islam, Chairman of JKPJO, stressed the treaty’s significance in understanding Kashmir’s self-determination struggle, noting its impact on governance and societal dynamics in the region.
The second session featured civil society members condemning the atrocities faced by Kashmiris, from historical oppression under various rulers to recent developments like the revocation of Articles 370 and 35A by India.
Professor Shahid Hussain Mir detailed Kashmiris’ centuries-long struggle, highlighting historical events such as the 1924 silk factory workers’ killings and the 1931 massacre outside Srinagar Central Jail, exposing deep-seated scars in Kashmir’s collective memory.
Tanveer ul Islam appealed to the international community, including the US and UK, to facilitate dialogue and advocate for Kashmiris’ fundamental rights.
The seminar ended with a call to action for global solidarity with Kashmiris, expressing optimism that collective efforts would lead to self-determination and peace for the region.
