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University of the Punjab

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CSAS Organized Webinar in Observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day
CSAS Organized Webinar in Observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day


The Centre for South Asian Studies organized a webinar, in observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day, on February 2, 2024. Dr. Asma Shakir Khawaja, Director Center for International Strategic Studies (CISS), Azad Jmamu & Kashmir was the keynote Speaker at the occasion. She discussed “Kashmir Conflict in the Context of Conflict Resolution Efforts”. In her talk, she said that Kashmir is the manifestation of Hindutva majoritarianism. The Protracted conflict began with the denial of the basic needs not in 1947 but in 1846 when it was sold to Hindu Maharaja. In this context, Dr. Khawaja was of the view that respect for identity is also a basic need. She mentioned about former British Prime Minister Cameron’s visit to Pakistan in 2011 where he stated that “We are responsible for Kashmir (conflict) at first place”. The Guest Speaker then talked about Modi’s policies of aggression are damaging regional environment. She said that Indian media’s role is to legitimize Indian atrocities in IIOJK. Undoubtedly, Indian media is encouraging the state-sponsored terrorism. It promotes hatred and violence. Any voice under human rights does not find any space in Indian media. She gave reference of Various Indian movies such as Fighter & Kashmir FILES, where Kashmiris are shown as traitors & pro Pakistan. Such portrayal depicts the common perception about Kashmiris. These movies symbolize how communal power is deeply influenced in Indian mindset. Dr. Khawaja further added that India’s Kashmir Policy is a threat to climate. She quoted Rajiv Gandhi and Benazir Bhutto who advocated for demilitarization of Siachen. Modi’s Hindutva propogation in Kashmir symbolizes; Extreme Oppression, State-Sponsored Terrorism, Communal Politics & Indian Colonialism. She concluded her discussion that Kashmir Solidarity Day is a loud and clear message to the world that Pakistan persistently supports Kashmiris. The world needs to address the basic needs. The International community must come across and play its vital and positive role to resolve the Kashmir conflict as per UN Security Council Resolutions.