Yana Mir, a Kashmiri journalist, captivated the audience at a prestigious event held in the British Parliament building. The gathering, organized by the Jammu Kashmir Study Centre, UK (JKSC), commemorated ‘Sankalp Divas’ (Resolution Day).
During this noteworthy ceremony, Yana Mir was honored with the Diversity Ambassador Award and delivered a powerful keynote address. Notably, she distinguished herself by expressing a resolute stance, stating, “I am not a Malala Yousafzai. Because I am free and I am safe in my country India, in my home in Kashmir which is part of India. I will never have to run away from my home country…” This declaration echoed her sense of security and freedom in her homeland, a sentiment in stark contrast to Malala Yousafzai’s ordeal in Pakistan, where she faced a violent attack by Taliban terrorists for advocating girls’ education.
Kashmiri journalist Yana Mir went on to commend the efforts of the Indian Army for their role in steering youth away from violence and creating opportunities in sports and education. Her words resonated with the audience, highlighting the positive initiatives fostering growth and development in the region.
The ‘Sankalp Diwas’ event in the British Parliament witnessed participants underscoring India’s rightful claim to reclaim the Pakistan-occupied-Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The JKSC, host of the program, reported an impressive turnout, with over 100 dignitaries in attendance. Notable guests included members of the UK Parliament such as Bob Blackman, Theresa Villiers, Elliot Colburn, and Virendra Sharma, along with local councillors and community leaders.
Yana Mir’s impassioned speech and the overarching theme of the event reinforced the significance of unity and determination in upholding the rights and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.