The Government of Pakistan has officially declared that Defence Day, observed annually on September 6, will this year be commemorated as “Kashmir Solidarity Day”. The move is intended to send a strong message of unity and support to the people of Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK), who continue to face severe restrictions and human rights violations under Indian rule.
A notification issued by the Ministry of Interior on Wednesday stated that all offices across the country will close at 3:00 PM on Friday, September 6. Citizens are encouraged to use this time to visit the families of martyrs, attend commemorative events, and express solidarity with the people of Kashmir who have endured a strict lockdown since August 4.
Message of Support for Kashmiris Under Siege
The decision comes in the wake of India’s controversial move to abrogate Article 370 of its constitution, which previously granted special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir. This action, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government on August 5, stripped the region of its ability to make its own laws and opened it up to land ownership by non-residents—sparking widespread anger, both domestically and internationally.
Since then, IOJK has been under military lockdown, with tens of thousands of troops deployed across the region, communications networks cut off, and curfews enforced. Mobile phones, internet access, and other forms of communication have remained severed for over a month, leaving the valley in near-total isolation. In addition, hundreds of political leaders and activists, including three former chief ministers, have been detained.
Nationwide Activities Planned to Mark the Day
This year’s Defence Day will mirror the spirit of August 14, when Pakistan celebrated its 73rd Independence Day as Kashmir Solidarity Day. Prime Minister Imran Khan had then addressed the Azad Jammu and 
Kashmir Legislative Assembly (AJKLA), while rallies, seminars, and public demonstrations were held in major cities to highlight the plight of the Kashmiri people and demand the restoration of their rights.
By aligning Defence Day with Kashmir Solidarity Day, Pakistan aims to reinforce its unwavering support for the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination, as enshrined in international law and UN resolutions.
