MIRPUR: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) President Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry has declared unwavering support for the Kashmir freedom movement a national obligation, urging citizens to play their role in strengthening the struggle against Indian occupation.
Speaking at a ceremony in his native village of Chachiyaan, President Chaudhry reaffirmed that advocating for Kashmir’s right to self-determination has remained his top priority throughout his political career. He highlighted his global efforts to raise awareness about the issue, including diplomatic engagements in the US, UK, France, and Turkey.
The AJK president stressed the need for a united national stance, bringing together political leaders from all backgrounds to ensure a cohesive approach to the Kashmir cause. He pointed to recent international attention, including US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s visit to Muzaffarabad, as a testament to Pakistan’s successful diplomatic efforts. Such visits, he noted, have forced India into a defensive position, leading to formal diplomatic protests against the US and UK.
Meanwhile, the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) commemorated prominent figures of the Kashmir freedom movement on their martyrdom anniversaries, vowing to continue their struggle against Indian rule.
In a statement issued in Muzaffarabad, JKLF central leader Raja Haq Nawaz Khan honored Ashfaq Majeed Wani, Dr. Abdul Ahad Gooru, Jalil Ahmad Andrabi, Advocate Syed Shabir Ahmad Siddiqui, and Basharat Raza, calling them the “national assets” of the freedom struggle.
He particularly highlighted the sacrifices of Ashfaq Majeed Wani, a fearless and visionary leader who played a crucial role in the movement. He also recalled the assassination of renowned cardiologist and activist Dr. Abdul Ahad Gooru, who was allegedly killed by Indian agents in Srinagar on April 1, 1993. Similarly, human rights lawyer Jalil Ahmad Andrabi, known for exposing Indian atrocities at global forums, was abducted by Indian forces on March 8, 1996, and later found murdered in the Jhelum River.
The JKLF reiterated its commitment to continuing the struggle until the people of Kashmir achieve their right to self-determination, vowing that the sacrifices of their martyrs would not go in vain.
