In a compelling address at the ‘Sankalp Diwas’ held in the UK’s British Parliament, Yana Mir, a Kashmiri activist and journalist, firmly repudiated the misinformation campaigns orchestrated by Pakistan aimed at tarnishing India’s image on the global stage. With a resolute voice and undeniable passion for her homeland, Mir shared her experiences and reflections, painting a picture of a region moving towards peace and integration despite external provocations.
Yana Mir’s narrative was not just a personal testimony but a powerful rebuttal against the narratives that seek to divide and destabilize. She underscored her sense of security and freedom within Kashmir, firmly anchored in its identity as an inseparable part of India. This assertion of peace and stability in her life starkly contrasts with the harrowing experiences of Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist who faced dire threats to her life, forcing her to seek safety beyond her national borders.
“I am not Malala Yousafzai, because I will never have to flee my homeland,” Yana Mir declared, highlighting the contrasting realities between her situation and that of Malala. Her declaration was a testament to her belief in the resilience and unity of her country in the face of terrorism and external pressures.
Mir’s speech was more than just a personal declaration of safety and freedom; it was a call to action against the divisive tactics employed by certain groups and nations. She passionately urged those present and the wider international community to cease the polarization of Indians along religious lines. Her appeal was a plea for peace, urging detractors to desist from maligning India’s image on global platforms and in international human rights circles.
The event, which took place in the prestigious British Parliament building, saw Mir addressing a diverse audience, sharing her insights and hopes for a peaceful and united Kashmir. Her words resonated not just with those in attendance but have since found a broader audience online, where her speech has been widely shared and celebrated.
Yana Mir’s journey to the ‘Sankalp Diwas’ event was inspired by personal tragedy and communal hope. After the loss of her father on January 26, she found encouragement from Sajid Yousuf Shah, the BJP’s media in-charge in Kashmir, to make her voice heard on this international platform. Her comparison to Malala Yousafzai, as she noted, was an idea sparked by her sister, illustrating the collective support and inspiration behind her message.
The event was organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Study Centre UK (JKSC), a think-tank dedicated to the analysis and understanding of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. During her keynote speech, Mir was recognized with the Diversity Ambassador Award, an accolade that celebrated her efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in the region.
Mir took the opportunity to highlight the significant progress in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. She pointed to improved security measures, government initiatives, and increased funding as key factors contributing to the region’s development and stability. Her speech painted a hopeful picture of a future where peace and prosperity prevail, backed by tangible improvements on the ground.
In a candid YouTube interview in 2022, Yana Mir shared her insights into the complex dynamics of the Kashmir issue, using the metaphor of an “interfering boyfriend” to describe Pakistan’s unwelcome involvement in the region. This analogy captured the essence of her argument: despite the challenges, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are striving for a peaceful and prosperous future, free from external interference.
Yana Mir’s address at the ‘Sankalp Diwas’ was a powerful message of resilience, hope, and unity. Her words not only challenged the narratives that seek to divide but also offered a vision of a region moving forward together, undeterred by the challenges of the past and present. Through her advocacy and activism, Mir stands as a beacon of hope for Kashmir, embodying the spirit of a community determined to shape its destiny with peace and dignity.