ISLAMABAD
\nThe freedom of Kashmir, its association with Pakistan, and the eminence of Islam are three aspects of one reality, the struggle for which must continue. This was the vision of Dr. Ayub Thakur, whose impact on strengthening the Kashmir movement at the global level has been more profound than any individual or group effort.
\nThis was put in words by Prof. Khurshid Ahmad, veteran politician, economist, and patron-in-chief of the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS), who commemorated Dr. Ayub Thakur, Kashmiri political activist and founder of London-based World Kashmir Freedom Movement (WKFM), on his 20th death anniversary today (March 10).
\nLauding Ayub Thakur as a visionary thought leader, Prof. Khurshid highlighted that he not only stimulated the Muslim community but also represented Kashmir\u2019s cause globally in political, diplomatic, and academic circles.
\nDr. Thakur was a PhD in nuclear physics but dedicated his life to the struggle for the oppressed communities around the world, particularly those in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. In addition to inspiring hope among the Kashmiri people, his work embodies the spirit of resilience and determination in the fight for independence and justice.
\nAt its core, the Kashmir issue is the issue of Muslim identity, said Muzzammil Thakur, who is continuing his father\u2019s mission. For this, it is important to communicate the movement\u2019s message effectively.
\nRecalling Ayub Thakur\u2019s last televised message, he reiterated the need to invest in nurturing the next generation to carry forward the Kashmir struggle. For that, it is important to refocus and strategize the continuity of the freedom struggle for future generations.
\nVictoria Schofield emphasized that the strength of the Kashmir movement lies in its recognition and understanding by the international community.
\nShe said Thakur was a key contributor to this strength as he globalized the Kashmir freedom movement and brought it to the forefront of the international community\u2019s conscience.
\nReflecting on Thakur\u2019s tireless efforts for the mission of Islam, Pakistan, and Kashmir, Ghulam Safi noted his influence on global scholars who started presenting the true perspective of Kashmir because of him. However, the current challenges demand a stronger stance, said Nasir Qadri.
\nDrawing parallels with the Palestinian liberation struggle, he urged for a decisive approach and consistency in the efforts of the leadership. Similarly, Mahmood Saghar highlighted the need for assertive and concrete diplomatic efforts beyond mere rhetoric.
\nEndorsing this view, Rashid Turabi said it is a collective duty to project and protect the efforts and mission of leaders like Thakur. This must be done at all levels with a targeted approach to take the mission to a logical and just conclusion.
\nThe Kashmir movement has been let down by the influential quarters, and there is ever more need to maintain the voice of Kashmir and Palestine, said Ghulam Ahmad Mir. He said the international community must acknowledge that the Kashmiri and Palestinian fight is for their right to self-determination and human rights.
\nGhulam Fai lauded Thakur as a visionary and principled leader, highlighting his instrumental role in founding Kashmir movement organizations internationally. He called for adhering to Thakur\u2019s commitment to mobilizing the diaspora and garnering international support for the Kashmiri freedom movement.
\nIn concluding remarks, Khalid Rahman highlighted the importance of two key factors in shaping the global conscience: street demonstrations and the level of international participation, noting growing support for freedom struggles like Palestine in the UN despite repeated vetoes.
\nHe emphasized the need to understand and leverage these factors to accelerate efforts at the global governance level. He also urged for a reevaluation of Pakistan\u2019s role and called for renewed focus and energy to address the Kashmir issue.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
ISLAMABAD The freedom of Kashmir, its association with Pakistan, and the eminence of Islam are three aspects of one reality, the struggle for which must continue. This was the vision of Dr. Ayub Thakur, whose impact on strengthening the Kashmir movement at the global level has been more profound than any individual or group effort. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":392641,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-392637","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-national"},"yoast_head":"\n