• Territory held special significance in commemorations, as it was among the first areas affected during initial phase of ‘Operation Sindoor’
• Acting president Chaudhry Latif Akbar and GOC Chinar Division Maj Gen Zarrar Mahmood inaugurate a Pakistan Army defence fair

MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Sunday marked the first anniversary of Pakistan’s victory in “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos” with rallies, seminars, exhibitions and cake-cutting ceremonies across the territory.

AJK held special significance in the commemorations, as it was among the first areas affected during the initial phase of “Operation Sindoor,” when Indian military action targeted civilians in urban areas and later along the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in several civilian casualties. The escalation was followed by a swift and coordinated response from Pakistan’s armed forces, which not only reshaped the course of the confrontation but also demonstrated Pakistan’s decisive military posture.

The day’s first major event was a rally organised by the Working Committee of post-1989 migrants from India-held Jammu and Kashmir in Muzaffarabad. The procession, which began at Burhan Wani Chowk, drew men, women and children chanting slogans reflecting Kashmiris’ affinity with Pakistan and their aspiration for freedom from Indian rule.

Participants carried Pakistani and AJK flags and banners bearing slogans such as “We are Pakistanis and Pakistan is ours” and “What is our relation with Pakistan? La Ilaha Illallah.”

“Kashmiris have pinned their hopes on a strong and stable Pakistan, and the current military leadership has made them happy by inflicting a humiliating defeat on their tormentor, India,” said rally leader Uzair Ghazali.

Separately, acting AJK president Chaudhry Latif Akbar and General Officer Commanding Chinar Divis­ion Maj Gen Zarrar Mahmood inaugurated a Pakistan Army exhibition of defence equipment as part of the Victory Day celebrations commemorating the success in Marka-i-Haq.

The exhibition showcased modern weaponry, communication systems, combat vehicles and other military hardware, attracting large crowds, particularly young visitors.

Attendees praised the Pakistan Army’s “bravery, professionalism and discipline,” saying such events promoted patriotism and national awareness among the youth.

Mr Akbar and the GOC also hoisted the national flag and laid a floral wreath at the martyrs’ memorial at Chhatar Chowk, where a Pakistan Army contingent presented a salute. A special message from Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir was also read out on the occasion.

In Kotli district, a large rally and public gathering were held in Fatehpur Thakyala, attended by Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam as the chief guest.

“The battle of truth crushed India’s arrogance and, by the grace of Allah Almighty, elevated Pakistan to new heights of dignity, honour and prestige,” he said.

He described residents living along the Line of Control as “unpaid soldiers of Pakistan” who had always stood shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces during difficult times.

“I do not have enough words to repay your love and affection. I am indebted to your passion and devotion. Our brothers living on the LoC deserve the highest tribute,” he added.

Former AJK premier Raja Farooq Haider said the nation was proud of the courage and professionalism demonstrated by the Pakistan Army in responding to the enemy.

In Leepa Valley, a ceremony featuring flag hoisting and the playing of the national and AJK anthems was held in Naukat. Local military commander Brig Amir Fareed and AJK premier’s spokesperson Shaukat Javed Mir were among the speakers.

The state-run AJK Television hosted a marathon transmission hosted by prominent anchors Syed Arif Bahar and Naila Altaf Kayani, featuring panel discussions with personalities from different walks of life.

Rallies were also held at district headquarters across AJK, while educational institutions and government offices organised special events, including cake-cutting ceremonies and prayers for Pakistan’s strength and the early freedom of Kashmiris from Indian occupation.

Published in Dawn, May 11th, 2026