- Political parties on one page
There is unanimity among the political parties only on a handful of issues, Kashmir being on the top of the short list. For two days the joint session of the Parliament debated the Indian revocation of Article 370, bifurcation of occupied Kashmir, its downgrading from a full province to a union territory and the lockdown of the entire Valley. The opposition criticised the government for its complacency that led it to misinterpret the moves by India. The government held the opposition responsible for doing little for the Kashmir cause. It was natural, however, for both the government and the opposition to finally agree on a strongly worded resolution rejecting India’s plan to alter the disputed status of the occupied Kashmir in violation of the UNSC resolutions. The statement condemned the horrendous negation of human rights in Indian controlled Kashmir and demanded lifting of the lockdown, curfew and suspension of telephone, internet and mobile services
The National Security Committee meanwhile decided to downgrade diplomatic relations with India, suspend bilateral trade, review bilateral arrangements, observe August 14 as a day of solidarity with Kashmiris and August 15 as a Black Day. It was also decided to approach the UN SC over the Indian move.
Due to unprecedented restrictions on media and on the free movement of the people in occupied Kashmir, most of the Kashmiris are still unaware of what India has done to them. The unprecedented measures are adding to their worries. There are reports of protests in a few places followed by casualties. Soon after media blackout is lifted, there is a likelihood of strong protests taking place in the Valley.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has taken the responsibility of approaching the world leaders for support. No country except China has so far come out on its own to criticise India. US President Donald Trump has kept quiet. So have other permanent members of the UNSC. No Arab leader has taken a public stand in support of Pakistan. UAE’s ambassador to New Delhi has in fact praised the Indian action. Among the friends and allies approached by MKR Khan, only Turkey and Malaysia have stood by Pakistan. Many will wait to see the outcome the PM’s foray into foreign policy with baited breath.
