Observed annually on February 5th, Kashmir Solidarity Day reflects Pakistan’s steadfast support for Kashmiris in their fight for justice and self-determination. The bond between Pakistan and Kashmir runs deep, rooted in a shared struggle for freedom that predates the 1947 partition.
In 1931, after Maharaja Hari Singh’s forces killed 22 Kashmiri Muslims while they were trying to complete the recitation of Azaan, the tragic event became a defining moment in Kashmir’s history. Allama Iqbal responded by forming the Kashmir Committee and pledging support for Kashmir’s freedom. However, the current lingering Kashmir dispute began in 1947 when India violated the partition plan.
On October 24, 1947, with the help of tribesman, the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) liberated their region. Pakistan recognized it as a Azad state while labelling it a base camp for the freedom of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and has since supported Kashmir on all platforms, standing by their right to freedom and justice.
On April 28, 1949, the Karachi Agreement was signed between Pakistan and the Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The agreement legally outlined their mutual relationship and defined Pakistan’s role in supporting Kashmir’s struggle for freedom. Pakistan promised to raise the Kashmir issue at national and international forums and work for its peaceful solution. Since the Kashmir dispute was taken to the UN in 1948, Pakistan has consistently supported Kashmiris’ right to self-determination. Despite India’s denial of all agreements and UN resolutions, Pakistan continues to provide support for the Kashmiri people. During these years, Pakistan has advocated the implementation of UNSC resolutions on various national and international platforms, such as UN General Assembly sessions. The Diaspora of Pakistan and Kashmir also works to highlight the Kashmir cause through multiple forum, such as Jammu and Kashmir Self Determination Movement International (JKSDMI).
When India revoked Article 370 on August 5, 2019, ending Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, Pakistan condemned the move and took firm action. Diplomatic ties were downgraded, trade was suspended, and Indian media content was banned. These steps exhibited Pakistan’s strong support for Kashmir. As in 2023, India’s Supreme Court upheld the 2019 decision of the revocation of the article 370. Pakistan rejected this verdict, calling it illegal and against UN resolutions. It reiterated its commitment to standing with the Kashmiri people and called for international efforts to restore their rights.
India has consistently attempted to undermine the strong bond between Kashmir and Pakistan. Whenever there any such protests on issues such as electricity, water, and wheat; Indian media misrepresents demonstrations as opposition to Pakistan. These claims, however, are far from reality. Unlike a province, AJK enjoys a special status, Pakistan prioritizes it with significant support that often exceeds what is provided to its provinces. This commitment is rooted in Pakistan’s constitutional stance. Article 257 of Pakistan’s constitution affirms that when the people of Jammu and Kashmir decide to accede to Pakistan through a free and impartial plebiscite under United Nations auspices, the nature of their relationship with Pakistan will be determined according to the wishes of the Kashmiri people. This provision reflects Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination, countering the false narratives promoted by Indian propaganda.
Such attempts of Indian propaganda regarding AJK will not be successful, as the people on this side are fully aware of the circumstances of their relatives and people living in IIOJK. Recent protests in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) over essential commodities prompted a swift response from Pakistan, which extended significant subsidies on electricity, wheat, and water. Compared to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) which produces approximately 30,000 MW of electricity, where electricity costs Rs. 23.59 per unit for the first 100 units and Rs. 30.07 per unit for the next 100 units; whereas, AJK benefits from a much lower rate of Rs. 3 per unit for the first 100 units and Rs. 5 per unit for the next 200 units, despite generating only 2,362.82 MW of electricity. In this way, AJK residents enjoy far cheaper energy compared to other provinces.
Wheat pricing shows similar support from Pakistan. While Punjab, producing 75% of Pakistan’s wheat, sells it at Rs. 140–170 per kg, in AJK it is available at highly subsidized rates between Rs. 50 and Rs. 90 per kg. Financially, Pakistan plays a critical role in AJK’s development. In the 2024–2025 budget, Pakistan contributed Rs. 105 billion—52% of AJK’s total budget—along with an additional Rs. 1 billion in water usage charges and a special Rs. 23 billion grant. This support covers the revenue shortfall, ensuring economic stability and growth in the region. Pakistan’s efforts to uplift AJK and bring it at par with international standards have yielded tangible benefits. AJK’s Human Development Index (HDI) stands at 0.781, significantly higher than Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s (IIOJK) 0.720 and India’s 0.644. Road density in AJK is also much superior at 0.78 km per square kilometer compared to IIOJK’s 0.1214 km.
These are just a few examples, however, they are testament to Pakistan’s continued commitment to the well-being and prosperity of the residents of AJK. As Pakistan’s investments in infrastructure, education, and essential services have enhanced connectivity, expanded economic opportunities, and improved the quality of life in the region.
Authors
Saba Ghulam Nabi, Research Officer at Center for International Strategic Studies AJK
Abdul Rehman, Research Officer at Center for International Strategic Studies AJK
