A Mockery of Kashmiris’ Dignity: Celebration of Indian Occupation in IIOJK

M Y Tarigami, a senior leader of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and MLA from Kulgam, has condemned the celebration of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s (IIOJK) Union Territory Foundation Day. He deems it a profound humiliation for the people of the region.

According to Tarigami, the downgrading of IIOJK’s status is unprecedented. He argues that this act is an outright assault on the Constitution. The arrogance displayed by the ruling class, celebrating this moment, underscores their disconnect from reality.

In a media interview, Tarigami criticized the indifference of local rulers and bureaucrats. Their applause for this celebration is nothing short of shameful. Such actions show a blatant disregard for the sentiments of the Kashmiri people.

He did not hold back when addressing the comments made by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Sinha suggested that the absence of MLAs at the celebrations indicated their “dual character.” Tarigami reminded him that the Supreme Court has ruled the UT status as temporary. It’s clear that statehood must be restored promptly.

Tarigami urged Sinha and the central leadership to acknowledge the reality of their situation. The Prime Minister and Home Minister have both acknowledged that this status is not permanent. The continued denial of statehood is an affront to democracy.

The National Conference, another ruling party in the region, also announced its decision to boycott the UT Foundation Day celebrations. They reject the current status and demand a swift return to statehood, aligning with Tarigami’s stance.

This collective resistance against the celebration reveals a deeper truth. The people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir are fed up with the mockery of their rights and dignity. They are not passive observers of their fate.

Celebrating a status that strips a region of its autonomy is a slap in the face to its residents. It reflects the ongoing oppression faced by Kashmiris under a repressive regime that refuses to acknowledge their aspirations.

The farce of this celebration speaks volumes about the priorities of those in power. They seem more interested in maintaining a facade of legitimacy than addressing the genuine grievances of the populace.

As the voices of dissent grow louder, the ruling authorities must realize that their actions will not go unchallenged. The people of IIOJK deserve to reclaim their rights and dignity.

In this struggle, the demand for restoration of statehood is not just a political issue; it is a matter of justice. The ongoing humiliation cannot be tolerated any longer. The time for genuine dialogue and change is now. The international community must take note of these injustices. The celebration of occupation is a travesty that undermines the principles of democracy and self-determination