Kashmir Solidarity Day 2025 witnessed an unprecedented display of state-backed events, raising critical questions about media control and the role of armed groups in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir.
Government-Orchestrated Events
On February 5, Pakistan celebrated Kashmir Solidarity Day with heightened enthusiasm. While events in Pakistan followed their usual format, significant developments took place in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. Schools remained open despite the public holiday, and government employees were mandated to participate in state-organized events. The Pakistani Army Chief, General Asim Munir, addressed a special ceremony in Muzaffarabad, alongside Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Armed Groups' Increasing Presence
One of the most alarming aspects of this year's Kashmir Solidarity Day was the active participation of banned militant organizations. Despite being officially proscribed, groups like Jamaat-ud-Dawa, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Sipah-e-Sahaba held large-scale gatherings. In Rawalakot, armed processions dominated the streets, with participants carrying sophisticated weapons. Notably, representatives from the Palestinian militant group Hamas were invited, further adding to the controversial nature of the event.
Media Blackout and Information Control
Pakistani mainstream media largely focused on official government statements, deliberately ignoring the presence of armed groups. Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq openly endorsed armed "jihad" in Kashmir, yet his speech received limited coverage. Instead, Pakistan's media highlighted the Prime Minister’s diplomatic approach toward India, creating a stark contrast between state policy and ground realities.
Digital Propaganda and Public Opinion Manipulation
Over the past two years, Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a significant investment in digital media. State-sponsored propaganda campaigns have aimed to suppress progressive and nationalist movements. Special digital media centers have been established to influence public opinion, targeting journalists, activists, and students through psychological operations.
Educational Institutions as Propaganda Hubs
Security agencies have increased their involvement in universities and colleges, promoting pro-Pakistan narratives. Special workshops and military-led training programs are being conducted to align students with state ideology. Simultaneously, former military personnel are being mobilized to discourage youth participation in pro-independence movements.
Public Resistance and Growing Discontent
Despite these efforts, public sentiment in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir is shifting. The slogan "Kashmir Banega Khudmukhtar" (Kashmir will be independent) is gaining popularity, even among students forcibly gathered for pro-Pakistan demonstrations. Social media videos showcasing this shift have gone viral, challenging the official narrative.
A Dual Policy on Armed Groups
The Pakistani state's contradictory approach toward militant organizations remains evident. While the country continues military operations against armed groups in other regions, similar organizations in Kashmir receive state support. This dual policy has fueled regional tensions and further alienated local populations.
A Looming Crisis?
The aggressive state-backed promotion of militant groups, coupled with the suppression of indigenous political movements, indicates an alarming trajectory. If the ongoing unrest continues, Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir may face an intensified crackdown. The risk of another proxy war cannot be ruled out, potentially leading to severe consequences for the region's already vulnerable population.
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