Every year on 26 October, Accession Day marks a historic moment in Jammu and Kashmir’s history. In 1947, Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession to India amid the invasion by armed tribal raiders who entered Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistan on 22 October. The invasion brought immense suffering to innocent civilians, including reports of killings, looting and atrocities against women. This painful chapter must never be forgotten.

For the people of Jammu and Kashmir, Accession Day is a moment of pride, patriotism and national integration. Many celebrate the occasion with enthusiasm and joy, almost like Eid, reaffirming their commitment to India, peace and a brighter future.

Today, Jammu and Kashmir is progressing in education, healthcare, tourism, sports and women’s empowerment. Universities, colleges, medical colleges and improved healthcare facilities are creating opportunities for people. Sports infrastructure is encouraging young talent, while tourism and development are supporting livelihoods. The aspirations of our youth are clear: quality education, employment, world-class sports facilities, peace and prosperity.

In contrast, people in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir have repeatedly taken to the streets demanding affordable food, electricity, better healthcare, quality education, employment and accountability. Protests led by civil rights groups, including the Joint Awami Action Committee, have highlighted serious public concerns about economic hardship and essential services. The people deserve dignity, opportunity and a government that responds to their genuine needs.

Pakistan’s leadership must answer the concerns of people living under its administration instead of using the Kashmir issue for political purposes. Ordinary Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control deserve better living standards, democratic participation and opportunities for their children.

Pakistan-sponsored terrorism remains a grave concern for Jammu and Kashmir’s peace, economy and tourism. The Pahalgam terror attack on 22 April 2025, which killed 26 people, demonstrated the devastating human cost of terrorism. Such violence destroys families, frightens tourists and threatens the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on Kashmir’s tourism industry.

Jammu and Kashmir needs universities, hospitals, employment opportunities, sports academies and investment—not terrorism, radicalisation or extremist propaganda. Pakistan must take credible steps to prevent terrorism and allow peace to prevail in the region.Accession Day reminds us that the future of Jammu and Kashmir must be built on peace, unity, democracy, development and justice. The people deserve a future where children receive quality education, patients access proper healthcare, women enjoy equal opportunities and young people can fulfil their dreams without fear.

The message is clear: Jammu and Kashmir wants peace, not Pakistan sponsered terrorism; education, not radicalisation; development, not destruction; and unity, not hatred. The future belongs to its people and their aspirations for dignity, prosperity and lasting peace.