August 5: A Dark Day in the History of Kashmir
By Prof. Masood Akhtar Hazarvi
August 5, 2019, is not just a date for the people of Kashmir—it marks the beginning of a new chapter of oppression, tyranny, and political exploitation. On this day, the Indian government unilaterally abrogated Articles 370 and 35A of its Constitution, thereby ending the special constitutional status of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This move was not only an attack on the identity, culture, and autonomy of the Kashmiri people, but also a sinister attempt to implement the extremist “Hindutva” agenda. It was a blatant violation of the Indian Constitution, United Nations resolutions, and prior rulings of the Indian Supreme Court.
In this column, we will shed light on the background of this decision, its horrifying consequences, the criminal silence of the international community, and the urgent need for effective action against this nefarious plan.
Jammu and Kashmir was the only Muslim-majority state in India, which enjoyed special autonomy under Articles 370 and 35A. These provisions allowed Kashmir to have its own constitution, flag, and the right to make laws. Article 35A protected the demographic and cultural identity of Kashmiris by prohibiting non-Kashmiris from buying land or settling permanently in the region. However, under the leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Modi government advanced its Hindutva agenda by revoking this special status.
On August 5, 2019, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah announced the abrogation of Article 370 in the Rajya Sabha through a presidential decree. Simultaneously, Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two union territories—Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh—bringing them directly under central government control. This decision was not made overnight; it was part of a long-term strategy aimed at crushing the Kashmiri freedom movement and erasing their identity.
Before this decision, a strict lockdown was imposed across occupied Kashmir. Communication networks were suspended, internet and telephone services were cut off, and thousands of political leaders, activists, lawyers, and students were arrested. This was all part of a calculated conspiracy that unleashed a new wave of brutality upon the Kashmiris.
Since August 5, 2019, occupied Kashmir has become an open-air prison. The massive deployment of Indian troops has made the region one of the most militarized zones in the world. Kashmiris have been stripped of their right to protest, speak freely, and enjoy basic human rights. Extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and violence against women have become daily occurrences. Journalists are being silenced, while international human rights organizations are being denied access to the region.
India’s plan is not merely political or military; its objective is demographic change and economic exploitation. After the abrogation of Article 35A, non-Kashmiris were allowed to buy land and settle in the region, paving the way to convert the Muslim majority into a minority. The Indian government is seizing Kashmiri land under various pretexts, establishing new colonies, and promoting settlement in a colonial-style manner. These measures are a clear imitation of the Israeli model, aimed at alienating Kashmiris in their own land and economically weakening them.
Tragically, the international community has remained largely silent in the face of these grave human rights violations. The United Nations, the OIC, and global human rights organizations have limited themselves to issuing mere statements. Powerful Western nations, driven by trade and political interests, hesitate to pressure India. This silence is emboldening India, while the genocide of Kashmiris, the denial of their right to self-determination, and the occupation of their land are being ignored at the global level. This double standard tarnishes the credibility of international institutions, which, despite claiming to champion human rights, remain subservient to imperial interests.
Pakistan has raised the Kashmir issue at every international forum, but there is a need for a more organized and effective diplomatic strategy. To internationalize the Kashmir cause, Pakistan must utilize media, social platforms, and global institutions robustly. Pressure should be increased for the implementation of UN resolutions. In collaboration with Muslim countries, political and economic pressure must be exerted on India. Additionally, the Pakistani public, religious leadership, academic institutions, and media must show both ideological and practical solidarity with the people of Kashmir.
The people of Kashmir continue their freedom struggle with unwavering resolve. Their sacrifices and bravery are a beacon for the entire Muslim Ummah. But they urgently need global support. India may accelerate its malicious plans, for which Kashmiris and their supporters must remain prepared.
August 5 reminds us that Kashmir is not just a territorial dispute—it is an ideological, religious, and moral obligation. Supporting the Kashmiri cause is a duty of every Muslim, and advocating their case is a collective responsibility of the Ummah. August 5, 2019, is a disgraceful chapter in India’s dark history that exposes its vile agenda. This day reminds us of the sacrifices of the Kashmiris and their indomitable spirit of freedom. Peace in the region is impossible without granting Kashmiris their right to self-determination. India must understand that the spirit of the Kashmiri people cannot be crushed through force.
Every Muslim, especially Pakistanis, has a religious duty to become the voice of Kashmiris, support their struggle, and expose India's tyrannical schemes. The freedom of Kashmir is not just a political issue—it is a fight for our faith, honor, and human dignity.
Let us commemorate this August 5 as a day of renewed commitment to the people of Kashmir. Let us become their voice and strive at every level for their freedom. Because Kashmir is a symbol of our honor and a reflection of our faith. We demand immediate implementation of UN resolutions on Kashmir and economic sanctions against India for its atrocities.